Sandra Henderson, Chair I retired from Education in 2007 ending a 52 year career in teaching, 12 years in Newfoundland and Labrador, 12 years in la belle province, 1 year in Saskatchewan and the rest in Whitehorse, Yukon. I was the first teacher in the Early French Immersion Program in 1981, lobbied successfully for a French First Language Program that began in 1983. My teaching experience (always in French) in Yukon has covered every grade from kindergarten to grade 12 as well as 10 years as a part time French Instructor at Yukon College.
I am deeply committed to Education and believe strongly in ensuring that the students we serve are adequately prepared for the world in which they choose to live. That for me, means a high standard for all for whom we are responsible.
I have been a member of the FH Secondary School Council for almost 11 years servIng as chair for 9 of those years.
Our Council wishes to extend an invitation to you to attend any of our meetings. We would be very appreciative for your input and counsel on any matter in Education.
Deborah Lemaire, Council Member
My husband and I have two daughters who attend F.H. Collins in the French Immersion program. I come from a family of educators and spent sixteen years as Artistic Director of the Northern Lights School of Dance where I was responsible for providing quality dance instruction to students of all levels and ages and contributing to the development of artistic expression, the arts, and the artistic community in Yukon. The school council can play an important role in keeping parents informed, encouraging open dialogue and a healthy sharing of concerns and potential solutions, encouraging and supporting innovative approaches to teaching, learning and the continuous renewal of education through continued support for our teachers and principal and working collaboratively to provide an atmosphere in which students strive to reach their potential and develop a lifelong interest in learning. I want to contribute to the shared goal of improving student achievement, helping the school identify and respond to the educational needs of our community and to have the opportunity to make a positive impact on our children’s education.
Russell Knutson, Council Member
Muhammad Javed, Council Member My name is Muhammad Javed and I’m excited to serve another term as a member on the F. H. Collins School Council. I’ve lived in the Yukon since 2001. My wife Rahsida and I have three beautiful daughters, Fatima, Saba and Sana, who are all going, or have gone, to F.H. Collins.
I have a Masters in Physics, a degree in Education, 6 years teaching experience and am currently working at Northwestel. I am also president of the Yukon Muslims Society and a member of the Yukon Visible Minorities Advisory Board.
With my education background and experience I look forward to contributing to the improvement of student learning in the Yukon.
Deb Gohl, Council Member
I am excited to be part of the F. H. Collins School Council for the first time. As a parent of two, (my daughter is in grade 9 and my son will be starting grade 8 next year) I am learning about the important role parents can play in supporting their children throughout their high school years. I’ve lived in Yukon for almost 30 years and enjoy most outdoor activities including hiking, paddling, biking and skiing.
My husband and I both have teaching backgrounds and are passionate about education. My priorities as a council member include building a strong partnership with the administration and staff, supporting improved student learning and encouraging effective interventions for our vulnerable students.
I look forward to learning more about the roles and responsibilities of the School Council and exploring ways that I can be part of a collaborative partnership that makes a positive impact for all students.