Teacher-led Edmonton trip making big impact on students

Ross has noticed the trips have done just that.

“When I first started, my attendance was very, very low. By the end of the year, I hardly had any students, especially when it got really warm,” she added.

“Now that I do my trip, I keep a lot of them and it is worth it. The other Grade 9, they do have a lower attendance I find. I think the trip is a big thing and it is something they really look forward to.”

In order to qualify for the trip, Ross noted it comes down to academics, attendance, and attitude. Students must have passing grades, have a minimum of 70 per cent attendance, and can’t have too many incident reports. They also can’t attend school under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Teacher Kara Ross fundraises $10,000 herself to make the Edmonton trip possible. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW)

Ross takes it upon herself to raise the $10,000 needed for the trip. She does it without any outside funding such as grants.

“I have my own little classroom canteen. I sell items during recess and lunch hour. I start right on the first day of school. It’s a lot of work. I have to go to P.A. almost every weekend to the wholesale because it is cheaper there. I stock up and I come back,” she said.

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it for the students.”

While in Edmonton, students will visit the West Edmonton Mall to participate in activities such at Galaxyland, World Waterpark and Marine Life. They will also visit the Scotiabank Theatre, an IMAX Theatre, the TELUS World of Science, Laser City, and a tour of downtown.

“They remember it for quite a long time,” Ross remarked.

“My students always talk about the trip. It gives them an opportunity to get out of the province and see that there’s more to life than just Saskatchewan.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Teacher-led Edmonton trip making big impact on students

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