When the Sturgeon School Division board of trustees created a new award this spring, principal Brian Brigden had no hesitation about nominating Darwin Krips.
"I nominated Darwin Krips, the music teacher at Sturgeon Composite High School, for the thousands of hours he puts into his program," Brigden said.
The Certificate of Exceptional Service was created to recognize individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance or service over a period of time.
Krips began teaching band at Sturgeon Composite High School 11 years ago. Soon afterwards, he established a choir.
"Both the band and the choir have grown. When he started the choir, we only had 14 kids. Now there are 72 members, and the choir placed first in the province this year," Brigden said.
The choir appeals to the students because they learn a variety of music, including the music of Africa and a cappella harmonies.
"They are learning about other cultures as they learn about music," Brigden said, adding that the jazz and concert bands have also grown to a total of 130 members.
"It takes a special type of teacher to be a band teacher, and Darwin Krips is very dedicated. He loves music and he is passionate about sharing that with his students," Brigden said.
APEGGA Award
Each year the Association of Professional Engineers, Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta (APEGGA) recognizes the work of 20 outstanding math and science teachers in the province.
Sturgeon Composite High School math teacher Sherri Devolder was recognized this year for her exceptional service.
"When APEGGA gives this award, they are looking for exceptional service and also to see how the students in her class do. Her students perform at a high level on departmental exams," said Brigden.
Devolder makes math relevant to her students and she gets them involved and interested in the subject, Brigden said.
"Sometimes it's silly things like math songs, but the result is they get it."
The APEGGA Award came with a $2,000 professional development prize for the math department at Sturgeon Composite High School.
