Kelsey: What school do you teach at and what grade?

Donelle: I teach grades 10, 11 and 12 at BRACE (formerly know as PACE).

Kelsey: What is your favourite course to teach?

Donelle: Hmm, I teach math 10/20, social 30 and Phys ed 10-30 and I like all the courses for different reasons. I can’t decide on a favourite,

Kelsey: What is a challenge of your job?

Donelle: Because we are an alternate school, some students are just online and it can be a challenge to engage them in their courses and to get to know them.

Kelsey: Where did you go to school and what courses did you take?

Donelle: I went to school at the University of Alberta where I graduated with a degree in Secondary Education. I have a major in CTS: Business Admin and a minor in PE so I had to take education, phys ed and business courses.

Kelsey: Where have you taught at?

Donelle: I have taught at BRACE for 10 years, so I’ve been here since I graduated, though I did teach at the women’s prison in Edmonton for a month prior to starting at BRACE.

Kelsey: How is maternity leave and do you miss working?

Donelle: Mat leave is the best! I absolutely love getting to be home with my daughter. I don’t miss work yet but I do miss seeing me work friends daily.

Kelsey: Do you like summer school teaching or regular school?

Donelle: I prefer regular school. Summer school condenses courses into 4 weeks. It’s a huge commitment for high school students and very rushed.

Kelsey: How many students are in the classes you teach?

Donelle: On average there are about 20-30 students in each of my classes.

Kelsey: Where did you grow up and how was your childhood?

Donelle: I grew up on an acreage near Beaumont. My childhood was lovely. It was filled with lots of sports!

Kelsey: Do you have any siblings?

Donelle: I have a younger sister, Whitney.

Kelsey: What are your hobbies, what do you do in your spare time?

Donelle: My main hobby is ringette. I like to do activities with friends and family in my spare time. Some of my favourites are golf, running and snowboarding. I also love to get away and travel.