Judy Saunders-McKay
- Home Community:
Pimicikamak - Cultural Identity:
Ininiw Iskwew - Current Position:
Grade 9-12 beading and Indigenous Culture - Education/Training:
Brandon University Bachelor of Education - Roles/Responsibilities:
My most important role is that of a mother. I have had a hand in mothering 10 children, 8 of whom are now adults finding their way and place in the world. If you think parenting stops at age 18, you are sadly mistaken, ha ha.
By day, I am a high school teacher in my 28th year of teaching! Where does the time go? I started my teaching career in Cross Lake (10 years), then moved to Thompson (16 years) and am currently finishing up my career in Portage la Prairie (going on year 3) where I teach beading and Indigenous culture. I love it!!
“If you are able to show respect and love and use the truth to gain wisdom, that will give you the courage to go out into the world and be able to live an honest and humble life. Be Kind!”
What obstacles did you face and how did you overcome them?
I don't look at them as obstacles anymore, I now see them as lessons.
I was in a very unhealthy relationship for many years, including my university years. You really can lose your focus when you are not taking care of yourself because you are allowing others to hold you down. I was mostly a single parent raising three little boys so university took me six years to get through instead of four. I was determined not to become a statistic so once I finally finished school I went to Pimicikamak where my mom's family comes from and they offered me my first job. As I look back on my career, that was my most favorite teaching position. Being around my family and teaching with familiar people was rewarding.
Teaching in a system not designed for all learners has been difficult. With 7.5% of all teachers identifying as Indigenous in Manitoba, as opposed to 92.5% non Indigenous, I often wondered if I can really make a difference, if I am being heard, honored and valued for the teacher/person I am. My classroom is a safe space for all and that is my main focus.
What or who inspired you to really go after the profession you are in now?
I get asked this question often and cannot identify a specific person who inspired me. My dad was a teacher so I'm pretty sure that had something to do with it. I think I just wanted to have a profession where I felt like I was helping people. I tried a year of nursing but quickly realized that wasn't for me. Tried my hand at teaching and here I am almost 3 decades later.
What critical choices or decisions did you make that helped you get where you are today?
I decided that no matter what I was dealing with, I had to finish school and be able to support my children.
Message of Encouragement:
If you are able to show respect and love and use the truth to gain wisdom, that will give you the courage to go out into the world and be able to live an honest and humble life. Be Kind!
