March 6, 2018

To whom it may concern:

It was the pleasure of Barnwell School and our students to have Jade Oldfield complete her final
teaching practicum here. From the onset of her experience, it was apparent that Jade was dedicated,
organised, and skilled.

Without hesitation, Jade was eager to take on planning for a heavy Junior High ELA course load. She
prepared solid, curriculum-driven long-range and daily plans complete with modifications for learning
and assessment. Planning and preparation is one of Jade’s strengths as she demonstrates not only a
keen knowledge of her subject matter in ELA but is also innately aware of time management, therefore
her classes ran smoothly. Expectations were clear, resources were prepared and organised, and
assessment was integral. Jade continually employed creative, engaging tasks in her lessons, such as
using ‘window writers’ for vocabulary or spelling ‘brain breaks’ during lengthy classes. She is also adept
with several forms of technology and implemented several resources to enhance classes. Students were
consistently engaged in lessons and rose to the challenges she provided. Throughout all classes, Jade
continually provided guidance and feedback on growth, to set students up for success. Without any
doubt, each student in Ms. Oldfield’s ELA classes saw growth and development with communication
skills.

Jade involved herself in our school’s extra-curricular programs as well, eagerly volunteering early in her
practicum to coach volleyball. This was a large time commitment and helped prepare Jade for the busy
balance of teaching as a career. She was positive and worked hard to make the experience a great one
for her team. Jade also organised a speaker to come in and present on future career paths for our entire
junior high population. Additional to this, Jade planned a field trip to the Lethbridge College for her
grade 6 ELA class within her media unit. All of these commitments and extra opportunities go beyond
the basic expectations of a practicum teacher, but were obviously important elements of Jade’s teaching
philosophy.

Overall, I feel Jade has a refined presence as a teacher, with natural skill to prepare engaging learning
experiences, reflect on the learning of her students and her own profession, and create an inclusive
learning environment for her students. She responds to the needs of each child. I would be thrilled to
have my own children in Ms. Oldfield’s class. Please don’t hesitate to contact me,
shea.mellow@horizon.ab.ca / 403-388-9895, for further comment on Jade and her teaching abilities.

Sincerely,

Shea Mellow
Barnwell School