On July 29, UFV’s School of Education moved from Abbotsford to the Mission campus to better accommodate the growing number of students interested in the teaching program, as well as to take advantage of the new facilities to improve the program. Dr. Allyson Jule, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Community, and Human Development, shared with The Cascade the reason for the move and what this means for the program’s future.
Dr. Jule explained that two years ago, a third cohort was added within the school, which increased the number of students to a hundred per enrollment year — making the teacher education program at UFV the fourth largest in British Columbia. This significant increase in students was a great reason to relocate from one campus to another, and presented an opportunity for UFV to design the new building according to the special needs of its education programs.
Jule explained that “The building has four classrooms with state-of-the-art equipment for zoom calls, accessibility microphones and the latest technology that can better prepare students for their classrooms.” Each classroom is equipped with advanced microphones installed in the walls that seamlessly connect to the desktop’s system; this would enable seamless interactions between students and guest speakers or online lecturers.
Jule mentioned that the furniture is on wheels, allowing for flexible learning environments by simply rearranging the setup, and a kitchenette is also available for students within each classroom to easily conduct science experiments and art projects. Jule highlighted the adaptability of the space, noting that classroom walls can be adjusted to create smaller areas for focused group activities. She explained that these unique facilities not only enhance the students’ learning experience, but also engender a sense of belonging, as the building is designed specifically for the students’ needs.
The Mission community warmly welcomed this relocation project. It holds particular significance for Paul Horn, the current mayor of Mission City, who is a former student of UFV’s teacher education program. Jule specifically described the excitement of the Mission City Council and their ongoing support from the outset of the relocation project, saying, “The Mission City Council was really excited about the project and wanted to work with us to make this a reality.” Apart from the city council, the local community also expressed enthusiasm for the project. “Some of the coffee houses around the area have given us some discounts for coffee. There’s been a real welcoming atmosphere by the people of Mission.”
The new space has provided ample room for growth, enabling plans to introduce more programs in the near future. Presently, the School of Education envisions enlarging its student body, including additional post-secondary programs, and introducing a new educational assistant program. Dr. Jule explained that the School of Education wants to create a supportive environment for their students that is both inclusive and creates a sense of belonging. “We are preparing them for classrooms here in the Fraser Valley and the principles of truth and reconciliation with the First Nations is really central in the value of the program.”
Jule expressed her pride in the teacher education program at UFV, noting its strong support for student teachers and the dedication of its faculty. She emphasized that “part of what we want to be is University of the Fraser Valley, but for the Fraser Valley, ” and hopes that relocating the program will enhance its profile and attract more local students. If you’re interested in visiting UFV’s newly renovated Mission campus, there is an open house from noon till 2 p.m. on Sept. 14.
Chifaa Bouzid is a staff writer for the Cascade, currently pursuing a postgraduate diploma in International Business at UFV. She holds a bachelor's degree in Computer Science and has a keen interest in writing and social media management, blending her technical skills with creative storytelling.
