kking@medicinehatnews.com
Notre Dame Academy teacher and school councillor, Kim Rae, received the Excellence in Catholic Education Award during Tuesday’s Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education board meeting.
Rae, who has been called a faith warrior and a strength-giver, was nominated for her ability to connect with students and offer academic, emotional and spiritual guidance.
“One of the biggest things I have been a huge advocate for is making connections with kids. Every year it’s different, how you go about doing that, because you have different kids coming in (but) a lot of it is just interacting with the kids and making connections however possible,” Rae told the News.
Rae, who became an educator in 1998 and originally worked in Prairie Rose Public Schools before making the move to MHCBE, where she has remained.
“I love my job,” said Rae. “I’ve loved it ever since I began teaching. I love the kids and I always have connections with the staff I teach with … When you work with good people, good things come out of it.”
While Rae credits her colleagues with contributing to her success, she dedicates her award to her family, particularly her parents, who she cites as role models.
“My family was very strong in our faith and very active in the community,” said Rae. “My mom and dad have formed me into the person I am.”
Rae is grateful to be the annual award recipient and thanks the school and wider community for their support.
“It’s an honour and very humbling because there’s so many people within our school division who deserve it as well, so I feel very honoured I was chosen,” said Rae.”
