STAR Catholic School Division recognizes Tammy Bessette for Excellence in Catholic Education Award
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STAR Catholic School Division is pleased to recognize Father Lacombe Catholic School teacher Tammy Bessette for this year’s Excellence in Catholic Education Award.
A veteran teacher with 26 years of experience, Bessette has been a valuable member of the staff at Father Lacombe Catholic School since its opening in 2005. She has taught a range of grades from 1 through 9 and currently serves as Youth Minister at the school.
Bessette says she discovered her passion for teaching at a young age after naturally assuming the role of educator with younger siblings and cousins, adding that she strives to establish those same familial virtues in her classroom.
“I try daily to develop a sense of community, service, and compassion among students that leads to a feeling of family,” she explains.
“As a Catholic educator, I am called to help students develop a deeper relationship with God, understand Catholic teachings, and apply them to their daily lives. I observe students demonstrate virtues such as forgiveness, humility, and generosity with others. There is also an emphasis on the blessings we have and gratitude for even the smallest things,” she says.
A dedicated volunteer at St. Stephen’s Church, Bessette has been a member of the Parish Sacrament Team, served as a leader of the Children’s Liturgy Program for many years, and organizes numerous youth activities and social justice initiatives with her Student Leadership Team.
“Tammy can always be counted on to promote the value of Catholic education,” says Principal Maria Wagner. “Through her words and actions, Tammy spreads the news that God’s Kingdom is present in our school and in us. Students love to be in her class because she loves them.”
Presented annually by the Council of Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta (CCSSA), the Excellence in Catholic Education Award recognizes passionate Catholic teachers in Alberta who have gone above and beyond to guide youth as they grow into exemplary Catholic citizens.