Gena Watchel has been a marker and teacher with both ADLC and Vista Virtual School. She currently teaches Science 20 & 30, Physics 20 & 30, and Equine 1 & 2 at Vista Virtual School (VVS ). She has been with Pembina Hills for 14 years. 

Gena is an outstanding teacher who puts students first by cultivating and nurturing a Welcoming, Caring, Safe, and Respectful learning environment where all students are able to explore, take-risks, grow, learn and succeed. She teaches and leads by example, has high standards, and is very passionate and professional about her role with her students. She is fully committed to student success, growth and learning. 

Gena is a leader in the Science Department in incorporating new technologies into her course assessment and has spearheaded the work around AI detection by triangulating data from multiple sources. This has proven so effective that she presented the strategy to the school as a whole during a staff meeting. Her commitment to ensuring her students receive both the best instruction and the best assessment possible is an example to which all teachers can aspire.

Gena demonstrates excellent judgement, is well-organized, an excellent communicator, has excellent content knowledge, and is well-regarded by all. VVS is very grateful to have her as a part of their school family.

Congratulations!

Gena Watchel received the Pembina Hills School Division Exemplary Teacher Award in May 2024.