I had the pleasure of working with Justin Malec while he completed his PSIII practicum at ERHS in Milk

River during the fall of 2014. Since our staff is small, our current practice is to assign student teachers to
one teacher, but then to share the teaching assignments amongst the staff. We do this so one group of
students does not get all of the student teacher time. We try to set it up so our student teachers
experience a variety of subject areas and grade levels. This way, all of our students will get to experience
having a student teacher; this is valuable when a staff is so limited: students get opportunity to work
with a greater variety of teachers.
During his four month placement, Justin taught my grade 8 Social Studies, and also covered Science 10
and PE 8/9 for other teachers.
Justin taught my Social class with a great deal of enthusiasm and interest; his lessons were very
organized and the assignments and assessments were clear and concise. He used a variety of resources
including Smart Board, internet, computer, iPads, text book and other print sources. The students were
always involved in their learning. The students completed poster and research projects and did daily
response to instruction assignments. Although Justin was originally unfamiliar with the Grade 8 Social
Studies course, he really did his homework and was well prepared to teach the kids. I am confident that
the students learned the curriculum as presented to them.
When there were concerns with classroom management or suggestions on how to improve, Justin was
eager and diligent to listen and learn. This is a young man willingly to learn, and desiring to improve.
Justin was well organized and he communicated clearly with his students. He let kids know when
assignments were due and how they would be graded. He let students know when tests were
scheduled, and he communicated with other teachers to avoid conflicts in exam scheduling. He returned
marked assignments in a timely fashion, and he allowed for formative assessment so students could get
another chance to learn and display their learning.
While he was at ERHS, Mr. Malec volunteered to help coach middle school volleyball and basketball. He
also helped out with a variety of school events. He attended sports tournaments and took turns working
in the concession. He pitched in to help out wherever we needed him. Justin showed initiative in
recognizing where he could be of assistance and stepping up before even being approached. He was
always friendly and helpful around the school. Justin came along to PD days and participated in
workshops.
I enjoyed working with Justin and I sincerely appreciate the time and energy he shared with my students
here at ERHS. Justin was pleasant to work with and a great asset to our staff here at ERHS. He is quick to
learn and understands that teaching is a life-long profession that requires constant development; you
are never finished learning. I am confident that Mr. Malec is going to be an excellent addition to the
staff of some lucky school once he completes his degree.
Sincerely,
Karen Ellert Garber
Vice Principal, Grade 8 Core, Biology 20-30
Erle Rivers High School
Milk River, AB
karen.ellertgarber@horizon.ab.ca