The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Raymond Blanchette-Dubé
Grades 2, 4, 5 and 6/principal, Jasper Elementary School, Jasper

Teachers from all across the province are involved in the work of the Alberta Teachers’ Association in various capacities. Such volunteer efforts by members are critical to the effective operation of the Association.

 
Raymond Blanchette-Dube, a necktie aficionado, poses for a photo with student Beenadd Sebhat, who has worn a tie to school almost every day since Grade 1, when this photo was taken. Beenadd is now in Grade 4.

How long have you been teaching?

32 years

Why did you become a teacher?

I wanted to share the passion and fun I have had with music all my life, to give students the opportunities to expand their musical vocabularies and the desire to create and express themselves through music.

Current Association role

Chair, local C2 committee

What are your main responsibilities?

Collecting and bringing forward the concerns of members regarding teacher efficacy to the board and district to build relationships and collaboration for the betterment of student education and teacher welfare.

What do you enjoy most about this work?

The opportunity to represent our teachers and be their voice to the board and central office staff in a collegial manner. Education starts and grows with relationships.

What other roles have you held with the Association?

School representative

Why do you do this work? Why is it important?

I need to understand how the “machine” of education works. Once better sharing and understanding are in place, the real work of improving conditions for staff and students can happen.

How or why did you first become involved in Association work?

At first there was a need for a representative from the school, then it was a desire to effect positive change.

What is your favourite ...

Movie?

The Breakfast Club (awesome music)

TV show?

I don’t watch TV.

Band/singer?

Annie Lennox

Book?

Lord of the Flies

Summer vacation activity?

Play

Travel destination?

Anywhere where my family is.

Article of clothing?

I have a bit of a tie collection. :)

 
Raymond Blanchette-Dube's tie collection.

What super power would you most like to have and why?

The ability to fly, for the thrill and the freedom.

What fictional character are you most like and why?

The old man from The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway. He is reflective, thoughtful and has the determination to see his work through to the end. ❚