Mrs. Gerard Presented with Rotary Service Above Self in Education Award
Wanda Gerard was presented with the Rotary Service Above Self in Education Award today, following a nomination from the PWA school council and Kaila Villiger. She also received the award 21 years ago, soon after starting with PWA. A full circle moment.
Wanda started as a math teacher 39 years ago. She has been a leader at PWA since it opened in 2001, first as an assistant principal, then becoming the principal two years later. One of her favourite sayings is “bleed blue” because PWA is a place she builds family. Her commitment to her students and staff is like none other. She recently said that a grandchild of her former student registered at PWA, so generations of families have had the privilege of Mrs. Gerard’s leadership as an educator.
Wanda contributes to the big picture of the Peace Wapiti district and county communities and has mentored numerous principals and leaders in this district and others. She researches and supports innovation in the field of education. One of her great and lasting contributions was a provincial initiative called “high school redesign” which allowed for a system and schedule of independent, flexible and focused learning time for high school students. She is currently working with the school community to secure a new building for PWA, to build PWA's future.
When Wanda retires at the end of June, she will leave a legacy of pride, innovation and passion for education with the students, staff and families of PWA.
