Celebrating Years of Service: Claire Apostolopoulos’ 25 Years of Fostering Creativity and Confidence

When Claire Apostolopoulos began her journey with the Abbotsford School District in January 2000, she could not have imagined the many classrooms, students and creative sparks that would fill the next 25 years.

Now teaching Art and Social Studies at Robert Bateman Secondary School, Claire is being recognized for 25 Years of Service and a career dedicated to helping students discover their abilities, build confidence and experience the joy of learning.

What do you love about what you do?
One thing I really enjoy about being a teacher, especially in art, is that many students come into Grade 9 or even Grade 12 and have never taken an art course. They automatically assume that because they are not naturally gifted, they cannot do art.

I love showing them that a lot of art is technique-based. When they learn the skills and the techniques, they can actually produce some really cool things. Seeing that spark when it clicks for them is amazing.

In what ways has the Abbotsford School District supported you in your career?
One way the Abbotsford School District has helped me professionally is by offering opportunities like the Shared Learning Conference. I was teaching a course called Art Activism focused on inclusion, and it coincided with Dr. Shelley Moore speaking as the keynote. Her presentation really supported what I was teaching at the time.

I also appreciate collaborating with colleagues on Pro-D days. Art teachers often get together to share project ideas and talk about what is happening in our classrooms. Having that opportunity to connect and learn from each other has been really valuable.

You have worked at several schools throughout your career. Can you share more about that journey?
When I started in January 2000, I spent time at McMillan Elementary, Abbotsford Traditional School, Harry Sayers Elementary, Roberta Bondar Elementary and Sandy Hill Elementary, where I stayed for 10 years. I am now at Robert Bateman Secondary School.

After 20 years in elementary, I decided to make the jump to high school. My own children were getting older, and with degrees in history and art, I wanted to use those in a new way. I had never taught high school before and thought they would never hire me, but they did. It was such a good career move. It kept things fresh and gave me a new challenge while staying in the profession I love.

Do you have a favourite memory from your time in the district?
One of my favourite memories is from my first year teaching. I created a leprechaun-themed unit where students received mystery messages and found little green footprints around the classroom.

When the principal came in to talk about his role as part of our community helpers unit, the students were far more excited to ask about the leprechaun than about his job. It was such a funny moment and a reminder of what really captures kids’ imaginations.

We hope Claire's story inspires you to #ChooseAbbySchools. Apply today.