Teacher Profile - Bruce Amy
Every day, in every school and classroom, our teachers provide a world-class, innovative educational experience for over 19,000 students. Working in public education is challenging and rewarding, but at our district we truly believe that every one of our employees has the opportunity to help children learn, grow and succeed.
Once a month, the District will be recognizing one of our amazing teachers and learning more about their journey as an educator, why they chose the Abbotsford School District, and where they see themselves as they continue to teach.
For the month of June, meet Bruce Amy.
Bruce joined the Abbotsford School District in December 2021 following a lengthy career teaching internationally.
Question # 1: What inspired you to become an Educator?
If you had known me as a grade-school student, a teacher would have been the last thing you would have expected me to become, let alone a teacher-librarian. I was not the best student and to say I was a reluctant reader would have been an understatement. School was not my favorite thing to do. I was an active, curious, hands-on learner and the school did not cater me.
Before becoming an educator, I had a career in recreation. Over time I realized that my favorite parts of that job were working with children, teaching others new skills, and collaborating in a team. Surprisingly my thoughts started to turn to teaching. As I considered becoming a teacher I started to realize that my experiences with school could be an asset, especially when working with those who find school a challenge. I believe I became an educator to help foster a love of learning in my students. I wanted my classroom and then my library to be a place to celebrate learning, to celebrate books, and to love reading. I wanted school to be a place for participation and collaboration, of safety and comfort, where experiences with learning could be shared, and where everyone’s opinions and ideas matter.
Question # 2: Why did you choose to work in the Abbotsford School District?
My wife and I have just returned to Canada after teaching internationally for the past 16 years. We have always liked Abbotsford and with family in the area, we chose to settle down here. Although we are technically retired, neither of us are ready to do nothing. The Abbotsford School District offers a good opportunity to be involved in our new community and to contribute in a small way.
Question # 3: What is your vision for the future as you continue to teach in the Abbotsford School District?
After a wonderful teaching career, I am now enjoying a taste of retirement. Having settled into our place here I see that working as an on-call teacher could be a great way of participating in, and connecting with, my new community.
Question # 4: Finally, do you have any advice for anyone wanting to pursue a career as a teacher?
Teaching in the public-school system is full of challenges and rewards. You have the potential to positively impact lives and to be impacted yourself. Students and colleagues have so much to teach you so remain open to learning all kinds of new things. I would also say that as in other professions where you interact closely with others it is important to have trusted mentors and to take care of your physical, social, emotional, and mental health.To learn more about the exciting opportunities with the Abbotsford School District, visit our careers page and complete your application today!