Spotlight on Retiring Member:
Anita Sawyer for 38 Years of Service
What We’ll Remember:
Anita has been a wealth of knowledge, with a lot of wit thrown in! A colleague and friend, she grace over and over to all, young and old.
Deb Rhodes
I always enjoyed our morning coffee chats, especially our conversations about the challenges women face as they age. Thank you for your kindness in bringing me the forget-me-not seeds when Neil passed away. It meant so much to me and is something I will always remember.
Congratulations on your retirement! I wish you all the very best as you begin this new chapter. Enjoy every day, make wonderful memories, and cherish every moment.
Deana Warden
When I first started my EA career, Anita was a colleague and acquaintance. Over the years we have become friends and I am going to miss seeing her in the hallways.
I can remember many times when Anita helped me. She would always have such good ideas. She lead by example, and watching her handle a situation, she was always calm and patient.
There will be a void with Anita retiring. I will miss our chats, and her witty humour. Enjoy your retirement and do all the things that make you happy!
Catherine Komadina
Parting Thoughts from Anita:
After 38 Years in education – all of them at Wainwright Elementary School as a Educational Assistant – the time has come for me to close this chapter and begin a new one in retirement.
Over nearly four decades, I have had the privilege of working with incredible students, families, and colleagues. No matter the role or assignment, I always tried to approach my work with enthusiasm and commitment to the advocating for the students entrusted to my care.
One thing people outside of education may never fully understand is how much heart this work requires. Supporting students means helping them navigate emotions, build confidence, develop resilience, and experience success – often while adapting and responding to their needs in real time. It isn’t always easy work, but it has always been meaningful work.
To my colleagues, thank you. Thank you for the laughter in the staff room, the support during difficult days, the teamwork, friendship, and countless moments that made even the most challenging years worthwhile. Education has changed dramatically over the years, but the dedication of the people who work in our schools has never wavered.
I am also grateful for the support and advocacy of CUPE throughout my career. Our union has been a strong voice for education support staff, championing fair working conditions, professional respect, and recognition of the essential roll support staff play in helping students succeed. The strength of public education depends on all those who contribute to it, and I am proud to have been a part of a union that continues to stand up for its members.
As I retire I leave feeling grateful: Grateful for a career that mattered, grateful to the students who taught me as much as I taught them, and grateful for the friendships and connections that will continue long after my last day of work.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey. it has truly been an honour.
From all of us, thank you for your years of dedication, compassion, and service. Enjoy your retirement — you’ve earned it.
