COMMUNITY LEADER | EDUCATOR
ROLE: Educator
SCHOOLS: ConnectEd Land-Based Learning
DISTRICT: School District #67
TOWN: Penticton, BC
Corrie brings passion and an open perspective to her work as an educator, shaped by years of teaching across British Columbia and a strong connection to the community she calls home in Penticton. After returning to explore new approaches in her practice, she stepped into land-based learning, an experience that transformed how she sees education. “This land-based learning class… has changed all of my perspective of education and has been a phenomenal experience.”
Her program began in response to students who were disconnected from school and struggling to find belonging. Corrie reimagined what learning could look like, shifting away from traditional classroom structures toward immersive, land-based experiences. “The idea that learning on the land could replace our chapter 5 in a science textbook blew my mind and how I could possibly turn that into a subject in school.” Today, her students spend many hours together outside, building skills, relationships, and confidence through shared experiences and challenges.
“Corries has a wonderful ability to connect with her students and make each one feel valued. Through her caring and inclusive approach, she helps them build confidence, strengthen relationships, develop leadership skills, and become the best version of themselves.”
Corrie sees the impact of this work on her students’ growth and self-belief. Many begin unsure of their abilities but quickly develop confidence through shared achievement. “When they got to the bottom, they could not believe what they had accomplished… and to see that on their faces and when they’re talking to their friends about how strong they were and what they had accomplished is phenomenal.” She holds onto a simple but powerful measure of success. “They leave stronger than they arrived, whether they’re with me for a year or two years or four years.”
At the core of Corrie’s work is a belief that connection to the land is foundational. “The connection to the land is like the fundamental thing that all kids should learn… it can’t really be taught in a textbook.” She carries forward teachings that prioritize outdoor learning first. “An Elder once said to me, seat second, which means sit in your chair second. First go outside. First experience it, first see it, first do it, then sit in your chair and try to learn more about it.”
Reflecting on her experience working alongside Spirit North, she highlights the balance of empathy and challenge, noting that students are consistently supported to take on new experiences, build confidence, and develop a growth mindset. “Spirit North teaches us to handle first time situations with curiosity, grit and respect. They teach us that learning takes patients and time. Students are encouraged to be brave and explore.” She emphasizes that these moments often represent meaningful firsts, from trying new activities to spending time on the land, and that when approached with patience and encouragement, students learn to meet those moments with curiosity, resilience, and pride.