Kim Harrington Recognized as Teacher of the Month by Local Radio Station

MANS Junior and Senior High School teacher Kim Herrington got an unexpected Christmas gift: She was named 105.5 FM’s Teacher of the Month for December 2020. “To the world, you may be just a teacher,” read Kim’s certificate from the Red Deer radio station, “but to your students, you are a hero.”

Kim Harrington, of Mamawi Atosketan Native School (MANS), was recognized as Teacher of the Month (December 2020) by local radio station 105.5 FM for her outstanding efforts to help her students in and out of the classroom.

A math specialist, Kim has also taught high school English, art, and cosmetology classes at MANS. However, while her varied and hectic teaching schedule takes up a significant amount of her time, she still goes out of her way to help numerous students and their families outside usual school hours. Even after they graduate, Kim maintains a connection with her students. For example, when it came to her attention that the family member of an alumnus needed some help, she stepped up.

A mother with five kids had to move just before Christmas. Circumstances were such that they had no possessions except their clothes. To this mother in need, Kim was a trusted connection.

By word of mouth, Kim organized a drive to help the family. The Christmas decorations in her living room took a back seat to piles of towels, linens, kitchen appliances, and beds as many friends and acquaintances responded to Kim’s request for essential items. One father of three sons, considering the age of the boys in the displaced family, contributed a basketball for the athletic teenagers.

Kim’s efforts triggered the nomination to 105.5 FM as Teacher of the Month. She received an award certificate and two-for-one Family Pizza gift card, and her glowing nomination letter was read on air.

“You go above and beyond for your students,” the letter began. “Most are struggling on the reserve or are in single-parent homes. You do so much for everyone and deserve some appreciation.”

In response to all the fanfare, Kim says, “I guess I don't love being in the spotlight. I like to do things quietly behind the scenes. My list of friends that helped out is vast. I could not have done it without them.

“Every teacher at Mamawi deserves an award like this,” Kim went on to explain. “Whether it’s giving our lunches or bringing extra fruit so kids can have more for breakfast, everyone on this campus goes above and beyond for our students.”

If one thing is certain, it’s that MANS is a special place. It’s not just the students and staff who feel a sense of community and connection with the school; families have that connection, too.

By Myken McDowell

—Myken McDowell is a master printmaker and communications specialist living in Edmonton, AB.