Daniel Birkenbergs has been a Grade 7 teacher in a Catholic School Board in Ontario since September 2004.
“I am responsible for preparing and executing engaging and challenging lessons for subjects as outlined in the Ontario curriculum,” says Daniel, who earned his Master of Teaching from OISE/UT in 2004.
“You have to be an energetic and passionate individual who is willing to continually reflect and learn upon the best way to reach students.”
Daniel, who secured his job prior to graduating from his Masters program, says his solid UTM education and the increased marketability of a graduate degree helped him immensely.
“Students wishing to become teachers need to ensure that they find and balance between academics and volunteerism. Both are required in order to be competitive for education programs,” says Daniel, who is currently the Regional Membership Development Coordinator for St. John Ambulance in Mississauga, Brampton and Orangeville.
“I was heavily involved with the Erindale College Special Response Team on campus and also taught swimming for several years. These experiences with children lead me to this career path.”