Jai Lin Mark: A Passion for the Classroom

Jai Lin Mark can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to be a teacher, so her career plans were never in question. However, she does remember feeling a sense of relief when she learned she could earn her Bachelor of Education degree with a specialization in elementary education at Northwestern Polytechnic.

“When NWP added the full degree, it solidified that this is where I need to be,” Jai Lin remembers.

Another sign that Jai Lin is on the right path appeared when she received a 2026 Passionate Heart Exceptional Individual award. The Passionate Heart Celebration recognizes people who make a meaningful difference in the lives of others by building connections and strengthening the community. Jai Lin was recognized for her role – or more accurately, roles! – at Parkside Montessori, where she works part-time as a substitute educational assistant (EA), classroom supervisor, administrative assistant and library technician.

Jai Lin began substituting as an EA in 2023, just after graduating from high school and beginning at NWP. Since then, she’s arranged her study schedule to work up to three days a week at the primary school. “They’ve given me the opportunity to do different things,” Jai Lin says. “I might do classroom support one day, and one-on-one work with a student the next. Every time I try something new, I learn something new.”

Thinking about why she was recognized with the Passionate Heart award, Jai Lin believes it might come down to her flexibility and dedication. “I can fill one spot in the morning, and switch on a dime to something else. I hope I make the day easier,” she explains. “I always put everything into my work -- it’s wonderful to know that someone else sees that.”

As someone who struggled with math and reading comprehension in her elementary years, Jai Lin feels it’s a privilege to share that experience with students now. 

“I want to be that person who offers strategies for kids to calm their bodies and put their best foot forward.”

Her own classroom, when she has one, will be a place where students can grow, learn and connect. “I want to make a welcoming, calm space,” Jai Lin imagines. “A place with structure and schedule, but also where kids are excited to come in.”

Jai Lin’s mom is a principal in the Grande Prairie Public School Division, so Jai Lin’s childhood was spent setting up classrooms and working the laminator. Between that and her time at Parkside Montessori, Jai Lin feels she’s entering the profession with her eyes wide open.

“I see the grit and grind of it all,” she acknowledges. “I have conversations with teachers and I know it won’t always be easy. It’s hard but so rewarding.” Jai Lin has already received many offers of support and mentorship from the educators she now works with.

Jai Lin is loving the community she’s found in her Education classes. She’s heard tales of her mother’s 300-person lectures at the University of Alberta, and appreciates the ability to get to know her instructors at NWP. Balancing her class schedule with work at Parkside has also brought financial stability and valuable in-class experience.

For those rare moments when Jai Lin isn’t in a classroom, you might find her cheering on the Oilers with her dad, studying in coffee shops with friends, or fitting in some babysitting – another place she connects with kids.

Jai Lin is grateful for the Passionate Heart award recognition – it's an indication that she’s on the right track. “This shows me that I’m right where I’m meant to be.”