Brenda holds a Masters of Education degree from McGill University and has over 20 years of
experience teaching ESL in a variety of programs across Canada. For 9 years, she was a
Program Head of LINC at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She has also taught post-secondary
English Literature, English for Business Communication, English for Employment, and English
Literacy.
Brenda began teaching ESL, in 1985, in Montreal. She worked with Vermont State College on
developing equitable assessment strategies for students with learning disabilities. She also
piloted one of the first community-based adult education programs in New Brunswick.
Brenda comes to the TESL Sask board with a wide base of experience. Currently, she is
implementing a self-developed task-based curriculum for international students.
As a member of this board, her interests lie in advocating for the professional recognition of
ESL instructors. She recognizes their pertinent role in helping newcomers successfully
integrate into the fabric of Canadian life. Brenda truly believes that there is more to teaching
English than grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. She believes that teaching English is
wholistic and involves coaching students toward all aspects of cultural communication.
Brenda feels that ESL instructors need to be professionally recognized for their unique skill set
that goes far beyond just being able to speak the language and follow a text book.
