Natalie (centre) receiving her commemorative trophy, with her original boss from back in 2001, Carol Hockley (left), and her current boss Chantal Smith, ED of WEGCSS (right).
On Thursday 26th June Natalie Lucas, our ECE (Early Childhood Educator) here at Valhalla Children’s Centre since 2001, celebrated her retirement alongside some of her students who were graduating to move on to kindergarten next year. Natalie was presented with a trophy to commemorate her 24 years of service to WEGCSS and the children of our community, many of whom are now adults.
The gathering was attended by current students at the daycare, their parents and families, past students and their families, colleagues past and present, and friends, and included a COIN drum circle.
Natalie was our longest standing employee at WEGCSS. A natural storyteller, advocate for the importance of valuing each child’s voice, and respected educator, Natalie has remained committed to the encouragement and nurturing of young generations of the Slocan Valley for many years, and has always been passionate about her work with children. The staff and board of WEGCSS wish Natalie all the best in her new adventures to come, and look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.
Natalie’s last day will be on Monday June 30th, after which Ilse Van Kempen will take over as the lead ECE, having completed her training whilst working alongside Natalie over the past year. Places are now available at Valhalla Children’s Centre, with Ilse and the team, as our most recent graduates move on to school in September, enquiries to 250-355-2484 or info@wegcss.org