Three Wainwright High School teachers with Buffalo Trail Public Schools are being recognized nationally for their teamwork, creativity and commitment to student learning.
Katherine Campbell, Jessica Oracheski and Kara Waddell have received the 2026 Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence Certificates of Achievement.
The three work together as a STEM team, collaborating on lesson planning, projects, assessments and new approaches to teaching. Together, they have developed a program that challenges students academically while helping them feel included, motivated and engaged in their learning.
Their approach also takes science beyond the classroom. The teachers partner with organizations including Canadian Blood Services, CFB Wainwright and the Wainwright Wildlife Society to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities.
Students are also introduced to real-world applications of science through opportunities such as the Navigate, Generate and Cultivate youth summits, which explore topics including water, energy, climate and agriculture.
In the classroom, Campbell, Oracheski and Waddell incorporate interactive technology to help students visualize and explore complex scientific concepts. They also use digital tools including Blooket, Quizlet, Gimkit and Wayground to make practice and assessment more engaging.
The teachers tailor instruction and assessments by adjusting timelines, layering tasks and using online learning tools to make learning more accessible for students.
Optimal Learning Coaches
Their work extends beyond their own classrooms. The trio has served as Optimal Learning Coaches, supporting and mentoring other teachers to improve classroom practices and student learning.
Campbell was also selected for the EinsteinPlus program, an intensive workshop focused on modern physics for Canadian and international teachers.
The three have continued their professional development through conferences including the National Science Teaching Association Conference, Response to Intervention Conference and Alberta Teachers’ Association Science Council Conference.
The national recognition highlights their collaborative approach, leadership and dedication to creating engaging learning opportunities for students.
