Land Acknowledgment
I would like to acknowledge that I live and learn on the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwépemc people, specifically the lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc in Kamloops. I am grateful for the care and guidance the Secwépemc have shown to this land, its waters, plants, and animals since time immemorial. As someone who benefits daily from the land, I recognize my responsibility as an uninvited guest to respect and honour these lands. I hold deep appreciation for the Secwépemc people, their knowledge, and their ongoing contributions, and I commit to reflecting on how I can support reconciliation in meaningful ways. Thank you to the Secwépemc people, whose relationship to this land is meaningful to all who live here.
All About Me
I grew up in a tiny place called Blind Bay. I was born into a religious family, and my parents did me the great disservice of putting me into a private religious school, which I loved at the time, but now that I’m older and have since left that world, I resent the fact that that was my education. There is so much I didn’t learn and didn’t get to experience that I have only found out about after the fact. And even though my parents meant no harm by it, it’s hard to deal with the fact that they did indoctrinate me. I didn’t get the choice to choose how I felt or my beliefs as a kid, and it shaped my childhood in a way that I am now disconnected from and have no involvement in. It’s like my childhood wasn’t mine. Once I left for Kamloops for my secondary education, everything changed for me. I discovered who I am and what I want to do, I found people whom I care about and share interests with, and I’ve gotten to make so many memories that I’ll always cherish.
Right now, I am working toward becoming a teacher, and I am excited about the opportunity to support students both academically and personally. I want to create a classroom where students feel safe, welcomed, and capable of doing their best. I know that teaching is about much more than content. It is also about building trust, encouraging confidence, and helping students see their own potential. I would describe myself as reflective, caring, and motivated, and I am always trying to learn and improve through experience and feedback. I am excited to bring my background, my perspective, and my commitment to this profession into a school community where I can contribute in a positive way.
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/zak-heinzig-283111414