ARCHIVED—Recipient Bios
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Year: 1998 – Province: Alberta
Certificate of Excellence Recipients
Tami Dowler-Coltman
School: Victoria School of Performing and Visual Arts
Principal: Robert Maskell
School Website: www.epsb.edmonton.ab.ca/ schools/victoria
Grades/Subjects Taught: Elementary and secondary theatre
Teaching Approach:
- "Students of the arts have to look inside themselves. Their education is about them and how they relate to the world."
- Help students draw on their individual strengths and constantly think about how they can grow and excel.
- Be ready and able to provide non-traditional ways for students to explore and learn.
- Never say "impossible!"
Outstanding Achievements:
For more than a decade has been the driving force in revitalizing the Victoria School:
- started with almost nothing (the former Victoria Composite School was falling apart and slated to be closed)
- created five distinct arts programs: the School of Music, the School of Dance, the Theatre School, the School of Art and Design, and the School of Video and Broadcast Studies
- innovative, arts-based educational program is considered one of the best in Western Canada
- attended by 1800 students, many of whom commute daily from as far away as 50 km.
In 1994, spearheaded a unique partnership between the school and an Edmonton theatre company to give students the opportunity to work alongside actors and directors in professional productions.
Recruited a large team of volunteers from parents to professional artists to enrich program.
Rave Reviews:
"Because of Tami's influence this school does not simply offer instruction in various disciplines, but provides broad exposure to a whole range of ideas and skills. We're a renaissance school!" Fellow teacher
"I loved the arts when I arrived at Victoria School, but Ms. D.C. opened up a whole new level of appreciation for me. She is truly passionate about teaching the arts." Student