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Remembering A School Namesake and Early Learning Advocate

Tue, 1 Oct, 2019

In May 2019, the Board announced Aleda Patterson was the namesake for the new K-3 school in the Afton neighbourhood. The former educator and early learning advocate passed away on September 27. 

“Aleda was a passionate advocate for students and families in Edmonton. She was instrumental in putting in place early learning supports within our city,” Board Chair Trisha Estabrooks said. “We look forward to her legacy living on in the new Aleda Patterson School.” 

HER WORK, HER PASSION

Aleda Patterson was a former teacher in the District. She was instrumental in establishing the Personal Development Centre, now known as The Support Network. She was also the founder of the Edmonton ABC Head Start program. The idea for ABC Head Start came to Ms. Patterson when she was living in Colorado. Patterson noticed the local ABC Head Start van in her neighbourhood and contacted the program to find out more. She took a training session and brought the concept to Edmonton in 1984. Patterson recruited her teacher and social worker friends to help get the program started, and the program was initially funded by Patterson and her friends. Since 1984, ABC Head Start Society has grown from a single location serving 10 children and families to a comprehensive early learning, family support and community program, supporting over 430 families at different locations throughout Edmonton.

Patterson also founded the Scarecrow Festival, which raised over $1 million in 10 years for both ABC Head Start and Kids with Cancer. 

BECOMING A NEW SCHOOL NAMESAKE

In May 2019, the District honoured Ms. Patterson’s legacy by naming a school after her. Aleda Patterson said she was thrilled to be honoured as a school namesake and described the Board announcement as one of the best days of her life.

Aleda Patterson believed having early learning supports and opportunities were invaluable. Her dedication to childhood development and young families continues to live on through the organizations she was so instrumental in developing. 

Ms. Patterson’s family looks forward to being a part of the new school that’s scheduled to open in September 2020.