I graduated from the Educational Assistant Diploma program after five years of part-time study in 2011. I was motivated to pursue this program to obtain current strategies and techniques to teach children in a classroom setting. 

I was a stay-at-home mother for nine years.  I was a volunteer at Ecole Crane and a Girl Guide leader for four years. I previously worked for 13 years in various administrative positions in Ottawa as an Executive Assistant, Secretary, Program Manager and Meeting Planner for the federal government, The Chemical Institute of Canada and for a major international conference.  I have an Honours’ Bachelor of Science in Language (translation degree) from Laurentian University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Ottawa.

I was hired full-time by Pembina Trails School Division in 2005 as an Educational Assistant at Ecole Viscount Alexander, a French immersion middle years’ school, grades 5 to 8. I felt that it was important to further my education to be more effective and current in the classroom.  Due to the stigma attached to the label “stay-at-home mother “and the fact that this position is not fully valued, I felt it was important to update my education. I also believed that it might be mandatory in the future for EAs to have the EA Diploma to better serve the school community.   The instructors at U of W were dynamic, current and told interesting examples to support the subject. The program is valuable in explaining school structures, learning styles, behavioural methods, disciplinary challenges and above all, the uniqueness of all students and the importance of finding a way to connect with each and every one of them.  

In October 2011, I started a lunch-time craft club to entertain students instead of outdoor recess on cold days and other undesired activities. The club had seven participants at first and quickly increased to an average of 25.  Once, there were 45 students.  I have always enjoyed hands-on activities liked crafts and, as it turns out, so do many students.  Anything goes at craft club so long as you’re quiet, polite, speak French and do something creative. I thoroughly enjoy connecting with students in this way.  It is an excellent way to learn social skills and a safe place for students who find the lunchroom too noisy.  The club runs daily and continues to be popular.

In conclusion, as a result of the EA Diploma program I have a fulfilling job as an EA and a fun-filled lunchtime activity. I enjoy my work at EVA very much and know I can make a difference. I believe in life-long learning; it’s never too late.

To view details of Diane's craft club please click here

Diane Goltz
Educational Assistant
Ecole Viscount Alexander