On Support Staff Recognition Day (November 5, 2022), we celebrate those who make a difference in our VSB school communities. From office support workers to supervision aides and grounds crew to operations, support staff throughout the District contribute their skills and expertise with dedication so that students can thrive at school.

One passionate support staff worker that has made her mark over the last 15 years at the District is Bonnie Cheng. On October 15, B.C.’s premiere announced this year’s finalists for the Premier’s Award of Excellence in Education, which recognizes exceptional teachers, support staff and administrators throughout the province. 

For her exceptional efforts as a student support assistant (SSA) at David Lloyd George Elementary since 2009 and for the vital role that she plays in their school community, Cheng was nominated in the Outstanding Support Teaching Assistant category. 

Prior to her career as an SSA, Cheng’s passion for supporting students stems from working in after school care and from the hands-on experience gained in the Education Assistant’s program at Langara College. Over the years, Cheng says what she loves most about her role as an education assistant is the collaboration between staff and families to ensure students with diverse needs feel supported in their learning journeys. 

“I love working with students and watching them grow throughout our journey together,” says Cheng. “What I enjoy most about being an SSA is building relationships with students, staff and families within the school community.”

Feeling humbled by this nomination, Cheng shares a few words of encouragement to support staff throughout the District on Support Staff Recognition Day:

“As an SSA, every day is a learning process, where challenges are overcome with patience and perseverance. The learning process and success seen every day in the lives of students that we work with is gratifying – and the experiences and knowledge gained as an education assistant is truly rewarding. I believe that this award should be shared with all the dedicated support staff in the District. Thank you for all that you do. Wishing everyone in VSB a very happy Support Staff Recognition Day!” 

In appreciation of all support staff, the District provides two $2,500 scholarships, that are awarded to graduating students at the end of each school year. Read more about the 2021-2022 scholarship recipients.