Alberta Certified Teacher Educating with an Emphasis on Wellness
HELLO! I’M MELISSA BRUCE
Teaching Philosopy
Focused on building relationships with students to foster respect and trust and to allow student voice and choice to guide instruction. Study of real-world issues through an inquiry lens engages learners and creates authenticity. Celebrating and exploring ‘failures’ establishes a growth mindset, encourages perseverance and cultivates resiliency. Utilizing the connection between healthy students and academic achievement to best set up students for success. A teacher, who models and advocates the value of a healthy, balanced lifestyle to staff and students, and helping others find the joy in being healthy.
ABOUT
My Story
As a natural born go-getter, my passion has continuously driven me to expand my knowledge, experience, and relationships. I grew up in rural Alberta in a small town. To stay busy I participated in just about every sport or activity that was available in my small town. When I was younger this included t-ball, figure skating, Ukranian dancing, soccer and and playing! As I got older I participated in multiple organized sports, with soccer and volleyball being my favourites.
Upon graduating highschool I went to the University of Alberta for my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. I remained actively involved Physical Activity through in intramurals, and even worked with Campus Recreation while attending school. Upon graduating I worked as a Personal Trainer. I enjoyed what I was doing but felt that I was being very reactive to problems of obesity resulting from a sedentary lifestyle. I realized I wanted to be more proactive, and find a way to help our population enjoy physical activity and lead healthy and active lifestyles!
After doing some volunteer work with Physical Literacy and You - Calgary I realized I wanted to work with children, and teach them while they are young the importance, benefits and FUN of being active. This ultimately led me to where I am now, at the Werklund School of Education completing my Bachelor of Education to be a Physical Education Specialist.
"It is better to know how to learn than to know."
Dr. Seuss
MY PROJECTS
INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDY
This project was completed as a group assignment, where teamwork and collaboration were crucial. We developed a unit plan that will guide students through the discovery of the past, present and future of Canada nad our National Parks in order to be able to answer the question, "How do we shape the future of our national parks?".
EDUCATION
What I’ve Learned
BACHELOR OF EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY
September 2018 - April 2020
I am currently completing my after-degree at the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, specializing in Physical Education. The coursework and practical experience provided through this program are helping shape my own teaching pedagogy.
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN KINESIOLOGY
UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA
September 2010 - April 2014
This science based approach to Kinesiology fuelled my passion for human anatomy and physiology, gave me a deeper understanding of chemistry and biochemistry, and directed me to the field of health and wellness.
LET’S CONNECT
I’d love to hear from you if you have any questions or would like to see a professional CV!