This spring, we are thrilled to spotlight English Educational Coordinator Amber Herman at Pivot North Bay, who brings energy, creativity, and a deep sense of care to her work each day.
Amber brings a strong foundation in education, having worked in a variety of school settings before joining Pivot. After transitioning to Pivot, she spent four years as a paraprofessional before advancing into her current role as an English Educational Coordinator. Her work reflects a thoughtful and dynamic approach to teaching, including curriculum design, creative writing instruction, and the use of effective pedagogical strategies. Now in her fifth year with Pivot, Amber credits the school’s alternative model and its genuine care for students as the reasons she was drawn to the organization and why she has chosen to stay.
“In a traditional classroom, you might see 150 or more students in a day, and it can be hard to really get to know them,” Amber shared. “Here, I have the time to connect. I know my students’ names, their families, and what’s going on in their lives—and that makes a big difference.”
Outside of onsite days, Amber continues that same intentional support through regular communication, one-on-one check-ins, and thoughtful outreach to her students and families.
“On remote days, I like to text students in a family group chat about something they were successful in over the past week,” Amber explains. “It’s always great to reach out with good news or support!”
Daily practices such as texting families to share student successes, checking in with students who are needing encouragement, and taking time throughout the day to connect one-on-one show how Amber builds relationships and stays in tune with her students’ needs. These small, consistent actions reflect her commitment to holistic student support.
Amber also developed a hands-on creative writing class, shaped by her belief that students learn best when they are given space to express themselves through writing, discussion, and ideas connected to their everyday lives. The class quickly drew strong interest and even reached standing room only attendance, with students responding enthusiastically to both the content and the supportive environment she created. Students report they find it easy to get their written work assignments done in this creative and supported way. Pivot is lucky to have an educator like Amber, whose work and ideas consistently reflect creativity and care.