Northern Lights Public Schools is proud to recognize Erin Shulko from Aurora Middle School as this month’s Shining Star, for her continual commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences for her students and for the Lac La Biche community.
Shulko has been teaching at Aurora Middle School since 2007, then known as Dr. Swift Middle School. Over the years, she has built a tradition of creating engaging and immersive learning opportunities that students remember long after they leave her classroom. Whether organizing trips for Grade 7 and 8 band students to perform at West Edmonton Mall or facilitating hands-on science projects such as frog dissections and trout-raising, her focus on interactive learning activities and school-wide events are commendable.
“I want to create educational experiences that the kids are going to remember,” Shulko shared. “Our annual band trip to Edmonton, the Science Olympics, frog dissections, trout raising—these are things students talk about for years.”
Her leadership influences the entire Aurora Middle School community, fostering collaboration and creativity. She recently spearheaded the school’s Science Olympics, giving students across all grade levels opportunities to take part in STEAM-related challenges. She is also the driving force behind long-running school events like the Lip Sync Battle and Aurora’s Got Talent.
“Erin is a dedicated and passionate teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to provide valuable experiences for her students, both in and out of the classroom,” said Aurora Middle School Principal Carolina Franke. “Her commitment to excellence is evident in the diverse opportunities she creates. From engaging science projects to school-wide events that build community, she makes a difference every day.”
One of Shulko’s greatest passions is music education, and she works tirelessly to ensure that students have access to enriching musical experiences.
“Music education is critical, and it’s something that often gets overlooked,” she explained. “I want to keep it alive and make sure students have opportunities to grow and express themselves through music.”
A highlight of Shulko’s year is the school’s music festival, an event that creates lasting memories for students.
“Our music festival is another big project that gets kids involved and really excited,” she said. “I love seeing the excitement that students have about coming to school, and preparing for trips and special events. Their energy is contagious, and it motivates me.”
Shulko’s influence extends beyond her current students, leaving a lasting impression on those she has taught in the past. Aurora Middle School teacher Caitlin MacDonald, herself a former student of Shulko, recalls how one of the annual band trips created lifelong memories for her and her classmates.
“Nine years later, I still remember everything about the band trip—it was the ultimate field trip for me and my friends, the day we looked forward to all year,” said MacDonald. “When my high school friends get together, the band trip still comes up as one of our best memories. As a teacher now, I realize and appreciate all the efforts Mrs. Shulko and staff put in to make this trip happen.”
Northern Lights Public Schools extends its appreciation to Mrs. Shulko for her dedication, creativity, and the positive impact she has on students and staff at Aurora Middle School, and is pleased to recognize her as this month's Shining Star.