Ophea’s Sector Spotlight aims to illuminate the bright spots within the education sector through recognizing the critical work being done by community members and value-aligned organizations, and its impact on student and staff well-being. This initiative also aims to strengthen connections between the Ontario education sector and organizations serving equity-deserving groups through raising awareness of the resources and services available to Ontario educators.
Lara Paterson’s work has had a profound impact locally, regionally, provincially, and nationally. As member of Ophea’s Safety and Injury Prevention Advisory Committee, and as a leader within the Ontario Association for the Support of Physical and Health Educators (OASPHE), her dedication and passion are an inspiration to all. Read on to learn about Lara, the recipient of Ophea’s 2023/2024 Award of Distinction.
What’s one thing you would like people to know about you?
That I have really lived my dream job! As the only person in the province that has held a joint position between the school board and public health, I have had the opportunity to work with students, educators and nurses to impact the health of our students. What we have been able to accomplish together is far stronger than what we would have accomplished separately.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about Health and Physical Education (H&PE)?
H&PE is a critically important part of children’s education. As H&PE educators we have the opportunity to build physical and health literacy skills that will shape their future mental and physical health. The skills we help to develop are not only critical for health and well-being but also critical for life. In today’s ever-changing world, students need be able to communicate, work as a team, self-regulate, problem solve and be adaptable. These are all part of a quality H&PE program.
What is one of your favourite quotes?
Warner Rush – “control the controllables”. Your thoughts, your focus, your effort, your level of commitment, and your attitude are things that you can control and will contribute to your success in life. It’s important to always come back to this as you persevere through life’s hills and valley’s and strive to be the best version of yourself.
As Steve Nash said, “If every basketball player worked as I did, I’d be out of a job”.
What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?
Raising two healthy active boys! As parents we focused on free play when they were young – lots of it! As they grew older, we were fortunate to have great teachers and coaches that helped frame their academic and athletic careers. The above quote has been used many a time with them growing up. Regardless of what you are dealt with, you can only control how you respond. They both have competed as student athletes throughout post-secondary and will graduate in Commerce programs. For that I am very proud.
What motivates you?
Staying fit motivates me! I want to be able to ski participate in activities with my family well into my retirement. Skiing is something we have done as a family since the boys were young and now it’s tough to keep up with them. It’s been a great activity we can all do together.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in teaching?
The importance of connecting with your students and knowing your learner. Although, you may not see it now, the impact you have on them is profound. Will you be the teacher they remember? Were you the teacher who listened to them when they needed to talk? Were you the teacher who encouraged them to take risks and feel good about themselves? I am always humbled meeting my students long after they have graduated and knowing the impact I had on their lives. You have a chance to make difference!
Contact Ophea at info@ophea.net to connect with Lara.