St. John Paul Il Collegiate PHONE: 403.938.4600 | FAX: 403.938.5324 | 63 CIMARRON DRIVE! OKOTOKS, AB |T1S 206 Date: June 25", 2015 To whom it may concern: |lam very pleased to write a reference letter on behalf of Lauren Novak. Lauren joined our Physical Education team at St. John Paul Ii Collegiate late in September of this school year. Being thrown into a new position, especially one that pushed her outside of her realm of training, is difficult for anyone, however Lauren took on her new role at our school with confidence and grace. Immediately Lauren dedicated her time outside of school to mastering the Physical Education curriculum, and went out of her way to ask for guidance and assistance to improve her ‘teaching. Lauren is a perfect example of how great teaching transcends beyond the classroom or a subject area, With her determination, love for teaching and her students, Lauren became a ‘master in the gym, proving that a great teacher can truly teach anything. Not only was Lauren loved and admired by her students, but she quickly became an invaluable member of our Physical Education team. She was always the first to lend a helping hand, to donate her time to help with coaching or running intramurals, or offer to take on many of the tasks that a PE team are responsible for. Lauren is a team player, and has the ability to work cooperatively with any of her colleagues. Lauren's commu tion and people skills are excellent, and she is very innovative with her teaching practices. She is a problem solver, and extremely self-reflective. When Lauren tried 2 teaching technique that she felt did not go as well as she would have hoped, she was quick to make the changes necessary to create a stronger, more inclusive teaching environment for her students. Although Lauren was challenged with a few difficult students this year, she always took it upon herself to find creative ways to connect and form relationships with them. As a colleague and a friend, | am very sad to see Lauren leave our school and our PE tearm. I know that she will excel in any opportunity that she is given and will make a valuable asset to any team or staff. From everyone at St. John Paul Il Collegiate, we wish Mrs. Novak the best of luck in any future endeavors It you require any further information on Lauren Novak, please do not hesitate to contact me. Best regards, Tory Bishop Joug Bishep Physical Education Leader and Curriculum Coordinator St. John Paul Il Collegiate