> Our History
The Dr. Stirling McDowell Foundation for Research Into Teaching is an independent registered charitable organization established by the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation in 1991. We are named in honour of Dr. Stirling McDowell, whose visionary work, internationally recognized research and ability to inspire cooperation and creativity in education was only exceeded by his unwavering pride and passion for student learning and the teaching profession.
Teachers engage in research every day and the Foundation seeks to formalize the research process for teachers and educators to enhance teaching and learning in Saskatchewan. With over 300 teacher-led research projects funded and a total of over $2 million in grants awarded, the results of our endeavours have had significant influence on students, teachers, and communities all across Saskatchewan.
Mission:
Enriching teaching and learning by supporting professionally led research.
Mandate:
To support research, inquiry and sharing of information into teaching and learning within the context of the provincial PreK-12 education system. We strive to:
- Contribute to knowledge about teaching and learning to support and enhance student learning.
- Encourage educational inquiry through a range of methodologies.
- Support the involvement of practising teachers in research projects.
- Encourage and support individuals and organizations to determine and pursue areas of research and inquiry.
- Encourage experimentation with innovative ideas and methodologies related to teaching and learning.
- Ensure resources are available to continue to support research, inquiry, and dissemination of information.
> Our Team
(L:R) Nicole Tainsh (Manager), Sean Lockwood, Diana Jemieff Hayes (President), Amaya Ander, Dean Lucyk, Callie Lewry (Vice-President) Lily McKay-Carriere (Knowledge Keeper Advisor), Ted Zurakowski. Missing from Photo: Alex Tawpisim, Denise Hepper, Kelley Ehman, Mary MacColl and Debbie Brown
The McDowell Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, the majority of who are teachers. The Board of Directors is supported by staff and a Project Review Committee.
The operation of the McDowell Foundation is carried out with the support of the Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation. Core staff services are provided by individuals who work out of the STF office in Saskatoon.
2023-24 Board of Directors:
Diana Jemieff Hayes (President); Callie Lewry (Vice-President); Alex Tawpisim; Amaya Ander; Dean Lucyk (STS); Denise Heppner; Kelley Ehman (LEADS); Mary MacColl; Sean Lockwood; and Ted Zurakowski (SAS)
Knowledge Keeper: Lily McKay-Carriere
2024-25 Project Review Committee:
Daniel Poirier, Seleste Eftoda, Troy Parenteau, Twyla Salm, Terry Wotherspoon.
McDowell Staff
Nicole Tainsh – Manager
Debbie Brown – Administrative Assistant
Nora Worby – Administrative Assistant
The McDowell Foundation would like to express our gratitude to past Board of Directors, Project Review Committee and Advisory Committee members.