ATHABASCA — It was created by Aspen View Public Schools (AVPS) last year to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a special contribution to education within the division, and now it has its first recipient.
A retired teacher from Smith, Patricia Jolliffe, was chosen as someone who has made that significant contribution to the improvement of student education, with Aspen View board chair Candy Nikipelo reading the nomination from Smith School principal Caitlynn Chernish aloud during the May 26 meeting.
Jolliffe was a teacher at Smith School for 28 years before retiring in 2017, staying on as a substitute teacher.
“Recently, Pat has gone above and beyond for both Smith School and the community of Smith,” Chernish said in her nomination letter.
As an active member of the Smith Community Association, Jolliffe has helped plant flowers, created a park and playground, and organized and delivered hampers and gift cards to residents in need, and has been planning the 100th birthday celebration for Smith School to take place over the July long weekend.
“On top of that, Pat continues to sub at the school on a regular basis, and she has applied for three different grants this school year,” said Chernish.
One grant was for gardening, one for phys. ed. equipment, and the third for a new outdoor basketball court.
“So far, we have received the full amount for the P.E. equipment grant, $2,820, and were able to purchase new indoor soccer nets, hockey nets, and other various P.E. games that our school did not have.”
Chernish noted Jolliffe has also taken on inventorying the school's ski equipment, attends parent council meetings as a community member and grandparent, and is constantly thinking of ways to improve the school.
“I feel fortunate to have had the privilege of working with her over the past 10 years as a colleague, then a community member and volunteer,” Chernish said. “Smith is so blessed to have Pat’s dedication, support, ideas and hard work.”
Jolliffe was then presented with a bouquet of flowers and a plaque by Nikipelo and Supt. Neil O’Shea, who knew Jolliffe from his youth when their mothers were best friends.
“Pat, you have been a leader in your community, both in the school and outside of the school for many, many, years and that is what keeps our small communities going,” said O’Shea. “We need folks like you stepping up and doing the work that you do to keep them alive.”
Jolliffe was overcome by the award and said very few words, mostly acknowledging how important it is to volunteer in small communities.
“Thank you, guys, for doing this,” she said.
