Sharon Christian, A Teaching Legend

Image submitted by Lynda Richard

By Lynda Richard

Sharon Christian began her teaching career some 40 years ago. She has been at it for so long, she mused in a recent conversation we had, that some of her first students are now in their 50’s! Pretty mindboggling when you stop to think of it.

She arrived at Bradner Elementary 8 years into her calling as a part time Physical Education teacher. Her own children were still very young, and this part time position was a good fit for her. She held that position for 10 years and then became the Grade 6 (sometimes 6/7 split) teacher, which was her position when our family moved to Bradner 26 years ago. Later, after Mr. Pohl, the Grade 7 teacher left for greener pastures, Mrs. Christian assumed to role of Grade 7 teacher. Mrs. Christian has always been a favourite of both students and parents. Her bubbly personality and flexibility make her easy to work with and she is an inspiration to eager young students. She always seems fresh and motivated, and indeed, she says every year is a new adventure. There is always something different with each class. She never feels unenthusiastic with teaching or bored with her profession, and it shows. Every student at Bradner Elementary looks forward to being in Mrs. Christian’s class, and former students and even parents, return regularly to update her on their progress in life. She is always excited to hear what they’ve been up to, and happy to see them.

She has been an ardent supporter of the Bradner Barker since its inception in 1994. Even now that there is no longer a printed version of the paper, she whole heartedly supports the on-line edition, and is working with her students to have them contribute to the paper by reporting events at school and in the community.

As many of you know, earlier this summer, Mrs. Christian sold her home in Port Kells, BC. She is currently residing in Ladner, BC where she is nearer her extended family. She and her husband John are building a home on their waterfront property on Gabriola Island. In the beginning of October, she will be leaving us to have knee surgery. After 40 years of teaching, we can’t help but think that retirement must be looming on the horizon for this teaching legend. 

Best of luck with your surgery, Sharon. We can’t wait to see what great things the future will bring your way!

A farewell reception will be held for Mrs. Christian at the Bradner Hall on Tuesday, September 29th from 3:30 to 7pm. Everyone is welcome. If you are part of the community, a parent, current and former colleagues and students, we hope to see you there. Snacks will be provided, pizza will be for sale by the Bradner Elementary PAC and the bar will be open!