Home page

Text size

E-mail this page

SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Trent Hamm doesn't do it for the fame and the fans.

"I don't teach for the awards or the appreciation from students or parents; I do it because I like to give students life experiences," Hamm said.

Weledeh School science and technology teacher Trent Hamm receives a Canadian Technology Champion award, a national award recognizing teachers for making science and technology learning fun. The award was presented by middle school instructional leader, Lori Bailey, right. - photo courtesy of Merril Dean

The Weledeh science and technology teacher was named a Canadian Technology Champion by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists for his contribution to creating an exciting and fun learning environment for his students.

Hamm, a teacher at the school for 11 years, received the award during a school rally on Nov 27.

"I was really surprised because I had no idea what was going on," he said. "I was supposed to be at hockey academy but the principal asked me to stay behind.

"I was really honoured to get the award. It's nice to be recognized."

The award is given to dedicated, enthusiastic, motivated teachers who ensure the next generation of Canadians are prepared to thrive in a technological world.

Weledeh principal Merril Dean said Hamm's contribution to the school is incredible.

"He is truly passionate about using computers and technology in the classroom and he really enthuses kids with that," she said. "What we see him doing is using the technology to get kids excited about learning and that is so important.

"He takes the kids a step farther and shows the kids how they can use the computer as a tool."

Using a smartboard in his classroom, Hamm is able to make the learning experience for his students an interactive one.

"I try to incorporate where kids can go up and manipulate things on the screen," he said. "It gets them thinking and active. I like the interaction between kids and technology helps make it easier to get things done in the classroom."

Hamm said having an understanding of how computers work and the importance of technology is crucial in their future successes.

"It makes life a lot easier later on," he said. "It's a big part of our society. You need basic computer skills to do most jobs. the use and the knowledge of how computers work, both PC and Mac will be really beneficial to these kids later on in life."

Dean said it is easy to see that students really respect Hamm.

"They love being in his classes," she said. "They seek his help and advice. He really has a lasting impression on their lives."

While he thinks there is a lot of importance in what he teaches, Hamm said there is more to the classroom experience than just the knowledge.

"It's the experiences and relationships you have with them," he said. "A lot of time it's not about what you taught but how you taught it and the experiences you've had with them."