Many people think that schoolteachers simply teach students specific subjects. For Paul McEvoy, who teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) at H.B. Beal Secondary School, it’s about much more. For the past seven years, he’s had his students—first in Woodstock and now in London—volunteer at multi-sport and running events in the community, including at the MEC Race Series.
“I wanted newcomers to feel involved in their new community,” McEvoy said.
The students are responsible for duties like directing runners on course, working at water stations, and giving high-fives out on the courses.
An outdoor junkie, McEvoy says he wants students to see a unique part of Canadian culture. Besides running with the London Pacers and joining in on MEC trail run meet-ups, McEvoy enjoys cycling, canoeing, and skiing. He works as the coach of the ski and cross-country teams at Beal, and it’s a passion that he shares with students, every year.
Since many newcomers come from places where it’s difficult or dangerous to spend time outside, he says the opportunity to experience the great Canadian outdoors is invaluable.
“Canada is known for being a great place with wonderful nature and great air quality,” he said. “It’s a natural fit to have these students come outside and see what’s here. I want students to learn about Canadian culture from as many sources as possible.”
Since sending his first volunteers to a triathlon he was participating in seven years ago, McEvoy says he estimates his students have spent more than 1,500 hours volunteering.
“Really, I want them to feel valued and that they belong and have a role in their new home.
“The students tend to enjoy the volunteer work, and I think they get a kick out of seeing my children, who also volunteer at the races, and seeing me compete,” he said. “They always ask if I’m going to win, and I always say no—I’m never going to win!”
By Cheryl Madliger, MEC staffer
