Tell us about yourself!

My name is Sarah Claassen. I have been a teacher since 2007, an EA for one year, and a volunteer coach since 2001. I have taught grade 3 for the majority of my career, with a sprinkle of grade 2, grade 5, grade 7, and a split grade 3/4. I always knew I wanted to do a “helping” job. My mom was my grade 3 teacher, and my dad was a principal. They were my role models growing up. But when I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 20 years old, I knew the routine and predictability of the teacher’s job (9:00am start, recess breaks, lunch breaks, and a group of student helpers), was going to be a good system to help me control my disease. I love my job because I am an extravert, I love the socializing of teaching, and I enjoy being around all ages of people. I enjoy breaking down small concepts in math, reading and writing, making them accessible for all people. For example, playing math games, facilitating discussions on climate change, planning field trip adventures as a group, and leading partner activities in writing and reading. I believe that for young people to learn and make positive change, they need to be the leaders. I am a mother of three amazing people. Before I became a mom, and now as a mom, I am a volunteer coach and coordinator of youth sports. I have organized mini-soccer for my community centre for 6 years (up to 180 players), JackRabbits Tim Horton Hockey for 8 years, youth soccer, and Kids of Mud Bike club.

Who is your favorite NHL® player and why?

Mark Schieffle. He is an all-star. He works hard at his sport. He thinks about ways to get better, he makes goals, he is loyal and he doesn’t swear. He thinks about his family first. When he advertises the Rolex watch for Independent Jewelers, he is astounded by the $90,000 cost of the watch. His first comment is, “This could buy my mom and dad two Toyota cars!”

What is your favorite part of the Future Goals™program? How do you see STEM in the game of hockey?

My favorite part is the math gaming!

If you played hockey, what position would you play and why?

Defense because I understand the concept of, “Don’t let the other team score!”