Retired teacher celebrated for landmark donation

After 41 years of teaching at Armstrong Elementary School, retired teacher Helen Sidney continues her tradition of serving.

Sidney has been honoured for her $100,000 donation to help transform the school’s library into a modern learning commons.

The donation was made in conjunction with the school’s 100th birthday in September, and when it was first announced in April, School District 83 believed it was the largest donation ever to the North Okanagan Shuswap School District.

With Covid-19 protocols in place, a small, but special ceremony was held on April 29 at the school to thank her.

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Mrs. Sidney said she decided to donate the money “while she was still around to enjoy it” but added continuing to help the “kiddos” is important to her.

“It means so much to me to be able to give back a little bit for what they have given me,” Sidney explained.

Sidney, who will be turning 99 this year and is still very active including going for daily walks where she cleans up garbage along her route in Vernon, added that it was good timing to be able to donate the funds just in time for the school’s 100th year of operation.

Principal Corrinne Langston said the donation was a beacon of light and hope during the pandemic.

“Just knowing we have these wonderful, good things happening is fantastic,” Langston said.

Teacher-librarian Michelle Krumm said she is honoured to undertake this transformative project to create a lasting legacy in Sidney’s honour. “I know our students, staff, and community at large will benefit from the new learning commons and I hope it serves as an inspired space until the next centennial.”

Mrs. Sidney was presented with a bouquet from Tennile Lachmuth, Board of Education trustee, and a letter of thanks by Superintendent of Schools Peter Jory.

Student Olivia Southworth presented Sidney with a selection of large cards, each one individually designed by a class.

A big surprise was in the card created by Heather Ramsey’s class as it had original printing work which Ramsey did in Sidney’s class in grade one.

“What a standard she taught,” said Ramsey. “I have nice printing because of her.”