Michelle Spearing

My name is Michelle Spearing, and I am truly honored and excited to be part of the Roots of Resilience Charter School community.  Drayton Valley has been my home for the past ten years and where we are raising our son.  I look forward to witnessing and contributing to the positive impact Roots of Resilience Charter School will have on the youth of our town, their families, and the broader community.

I am currently pursuing my Bachelor of Education degree as I was previously deeply immersed in the education system as an Educational Assistant. Although my role did not require it, I made a conscious effort to learn as much as possible about the many behind-the-scenes responsibilities that contribute to effective teaching and student success. Throughout this time, I remained committed to supporting students in reaching their fullest potential.

Prior to entering the education field, I earned a Correctional Services Diploma from MacEwan University. During my studies, I began working as a Child and Youth Care Worker in group homes for at-risk youth through Unlimited Potential Community Services. Over five years, I supported children and youth aged 5 to 17 across six homes in the Edmonton area. Each child’s journey was unique, yet many shared experiences of cultural disconnection and uncertainty about their identity and sense of belonging.  Through building trust and learning alongside Elders, I witnessed meaningful growth in the children I worked with. I also experienced firsthand the profound impact that cultural connection, land-based experiences, and community ties can have on a young person’s confidence and self-understanding. As children developed a stronger sense of identity and belonging, their acceptance of themselves and belief in their capabilities grew significantly.

This belief in fostering understanding, acceptance, and self-appreciation is central to my desire to be part of the Roots of Resilience Charter School community. On a personal note, my niece who was First Nations faced significant adversity and struggled with her identity, her sense of belonging, and how she saw herself in the world. She did not have the opportunity to fully experience the understanding, acceptance, and affirmation that every child deserves. This further drives my commitment to the Roots philosophy.  

I believe that through this school, every child will have the opportunity to learn about and embrace who they are. We strive to ensure that each one walks through our doors each day knowing they are valued, supported, and unconditionally accepted.