A total of 218 educational assistants from schools across the territory gathered at Yukon University’s Ayamdigut campus on August 20, 2025, for an orientation and engagement session focused on professional development. The event, hosted in collaboration with the Government of Yukon, marked the beginning of a new initiative aimed at strengthening the role of educational assistants in supporting student success.
Throughout the school year, participants will take part in a series of four professional development workshops. The sessions are designed to build skills, confidence, and practical strategies to ensure all learners thrive. Topics include the role of educational assistants in schools, approaches to supporting students with complex learning and physical needs, strategies for assisting students with individualized education plans, and the importance of interprofessional communications and teamwork.
This initiative reflects the Government of Yukon’s commitment to investing in educators and improving outcomes for students. By equipping educational assistants with targeted training, the program aims to create inclusive, supportive, and high-quality learning environments in every Yukon school.
The workshops also expand Yukon University’s growing portfolio of programs for educators, which currently include the two-year Early Learning diploma, the four-year Bachelor of Education degree through the Yukon Native Teacher Education Program, and the two-year Bachelor of Education after-degree.
Stakeholders describe the initiative as an important step toward building stronger schools and communities by empowering educational assistants with the knowledge and tools they need to make a lasting impact on students’ educational journeys.
