Natasha Pearson, part of the new CAREERS Shared Resource Program, is the School Engagement Lead for St. Albert Public Schools. With a rich background of seventeen years in teaching, Natasha brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role.
“I work in all three high schools in the St. Albert Public School Division, meeting with students to support with job searches, resume and cover letter writing, and anything career related!” she explains. Her role is multifaceted, including everything from delivering career education presentations to students, to informing the administration and school board.
Another key aspect of her work involves helping students with work experience and Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) opportunities. “I sit with individual students and help them complete their application for the trade they’re interested in, then work closely with CAREERS to help find placements.” Her efforts ensure that students are not only prepared but also positioned to succeed in their chosen career paths.
Her enthusiasm for the role and dedication to the future of these Alberta students is clear in her work. “My school division actually chose me for this secondee role – and I couldn’t be happier! I think it’s so important to help young people find a path that best suits them and will lead them to a successful and rewarding future.” The collaboration between schools and CAREERS is important in benefiting students. She emphasizes the unique advantage of having teachers like herself, with deep-rooted connections to the student body, working with CAREERS. “I’ve taught in my division for seventeen years, all the way from grade two to now high school! Our division isn’t that big, so in the high schools I am constantly connecting with students who I’ve taught at some point. This is not only great for the relationship aspect (the most important thing when working with students on anything) it also allows me to share what I know about students with CAREERS in terms of certain placements or paths being a good fit for them.”
She can be found encouraging other teachers that are considering working with CAREERS. “I would tell teachers looking into working with CAREERS to GO FOR IT!! Not only is it super rewarding work working with students to help them find their passion and plan, it’s great having the support of an entity whose purpose is to support these students in following those paths and passions!” The support and connections to industry that CAREERS provides have been invaluable to Natasha and many others in this role.
“Over my teaching career working with students of all ages, I have seen the importance of hands-on, real-world experiences. This is especially true for those students in junior high and high school who constantly question ‘when will I ever need to know this?’ Work Experience makes this very clear to students!” Showcasing the importance of high school while also giving students an opportunity to grow and explore A mixture of both classroom learning and real life application has solidified the future of Alberta youth.
Natasha Pearson’s dedication and expertise in career education are making a tangible difference in the lives of many students. Her role as a CAREERS Secondee not only helps students find their paths but also ensures they are well-prepared for a successful future.