Kimberley Daley has been shaping young minds and hearts across Airdrie classrooms for more than a decade. A Grade 4 teacher at Herons Crossing School, Daley is known not only for her skill in the classroom, but for her deep compassion and advocacy for every student she teaches.
Her nominator, Tyler Baptist, shares how Daley’s approach transformed her son’s learning experience.
“She has embraced his unique qualities, encouraged his strengths and shown him the joy of learning,” Baptist says. “Because of her patience, care and unwavering belief in him, Jack has flourished both academically and personally.”
For Daley, teaching is about connection and courage.
“I want my students to know they can do hard things,” she says. “My classroom is a safe space where they can ask questions, make mistakes and be themselves.”
Daley builds inclusive communities where every child feels seen, heard and valued, especially those who might otherwise, she says, “fall through the cracks.”
As a mentor and role model, Daley inspires confidence, empathy and belonging.
“Everyone needs a cheerleader,” she says. “And I cheer on every one of my kids.”
The AAWAs are celebrating their Sweet 16 in 2026. What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
I would tell myself, “Believe in yourself; you can do hard things.”