UNITY — Former Unity resident, Alisa Omoth, currently a Grade 1 teacher at Indian Head Elementary School, is the daughter of Joyce and Barry Richards. She was recently one of the nominees for the Saskatchewan Literacy Award of Merit. She attended an event hosted by Lt. Gov. Russell Mirasty.
Omoth was nominated by principal Jorie Gilroy. There were four categories and Omoth was nominated under the “Professional Leadership in Literacy” category.
This award recognizes the dedication of a leader, employee or other professional who supports literacy advancement in their organization and community. Award selection is based on initiating learning activities, ensuring inclusive training environments and other documented programs and achievements promoted through their leadership.
Omoth lived in Unity from the age of three until she graduated from Unity Composite High School in 1990. She attended the University of Saskatchewan and earned an education degree in 1994. Omoth’s first teaching job was at Loon Lake and she moved to Indian Head teaching at Montmarte, McLean, Qu’Appelle and Fort Qu’Appelle and eventually landed the position she is in today.
Omoth says, “This nomination means a lot to me as an educator. It feels humbling and validating to have hard work recognized. The fact that my own administrator nominated me feels like a great pat on the back.”
“Enjoyment of reading was modelled for me early in my home. Not only did I see both parents read voraciously, but they (and my grandma, who I loved dearly) regularly read stories to me. My love for reading was further inspired by my Grade 1 teacher, Mrs. Petty. I can still visualize the huge display across the classroom of outer space. Our goal was to “reach the moon” and we moved our name each time we read a book. I was determined to get there – and I did it! By then I was hooked on reading and the feeling of adventure one could discover by reading stories,” says Omoth.
“As an educator, I am passionate about giving my students every opportunity to also discover a love for reading.”
This story has been updated to indicate Alisa Omoth was nominated for a Saskatchewan Literary Award, not a recipient.
