Anabaptist Colony School Teacher Shares Unique Educational Experience in Alberta

The Southern Alberta Regional Office (SARO) in Calgary continues to operate normally despite severe flooding that has led to the closure of Barnett House until early 2027. At Castle School, located within Scotford Colony in Fort Saskatchewan, a dedicated teacher has been serving the community for 16 years, with 10 of those years spent at the colony school. The school serves 26 students across grades 1 to 9, divided into two groups: grades 1 to 3 and grades 4 to 9. The teacher, who has a .5 FTE colleague for the first time, relies on a limited set of tools, including an overhead projector, and avoids more complex technology.

The school environment is unique, with students often being siblings or cousins, fostering a close-knit community. The teacher maintains strong relationships with the parents and receives significant support from the colony, including the repair and reuse of items that might otherwise be discarded. Recent examples include a father welding a stool back together for the teacher.

Field trips to the colony offer opportunities to engage with farm activities, including carrying chickens between barns—a task that often amuses former students. The teacher also enjoys lunch with the community, sampling local dishes such as riced potato dumplings with cream sauce and fresh tomatoes, alongside baked chicken hearts.

Teaching at a colony school provides a distinct experience, allowing the teacher to witness students’ growth over time. This responsibility comes with both challenges and rewards, as the teacher must continually adapt to the students’ evolving needs and expectations. The teacher has also had the privilege of teaching students who were once held as babies, highlighting the long-term commitment to the community.

The teacher’s role extends beyond academics, involving a deep connection with the students and their families, reflecting the values of care and community central to the Anabaptist tradition. This environment underscores the importance of education within a supportive, faith-based community, where the well-being of each individual is prioritized.

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