I am an elementary school teacher currently working in Saskatoon, I have fairly diverse experience teaching in different grades, subjects, and environments. I am dedicated to improving the working environment for teachers and the learning environment for our students. 

Hello, my name is Jonathan Koch, and I bring over 21 years of experience in education.

For the past two decades, I’ve been a proud member of the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Association (STA), serving in both the Saskatoon Public School Division and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of representing my colleagues as a school rep and School Staff Liaison (SSL) in both divisions—roles that have deepened my appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of Saskatchewan educators.

My journey in education has included roles as a classroom teacher, Learning Assistance Teacher (LAT), resource teacher, and currently, as a special education consultant. Each position has shaped my understanding of the diverse needs of students and the importance of strong teacher advocacy.

This year marks my third term as a Non-Executive Councillor with the STA, a role that has allowed me to connect with educators across the province, broaden my perspective, and contribute meaningfully to our professional community. I’m now seeking the opportunity to serve on the STA Executive, where I hope to continue supporting and representing our members with integrity, collaboration, and a commitment to positive change.

Julia Macpherson (she/her) studied at the University of Saskatchewan, receiving a Bachelor of Music Honours degree in 2017 and Bachelor of Education in 2019. She is currently working on a Master's in Mathematics for Teachers online through the University of Waterloo. Julia has worked in many schools, both as a substitute and a contract teacher, and she is currently teaching math release at awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik - St. Francis School. 

Heading into my 10th year of teaching I have had the privilege of teaching in two different school divisions. I have experience teaching grade 1-9 including a wide variety of subject areas as well as teaching students from a wide array of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. My varied teaching experience has given me a unique insight into the everyday functioning of schools and the supports that staff may require. 

I love teaching because I love helping people grow. I want each of my students to encounter a welcoming, inclusive, and diverse learning community where they feel that they belong, and their needs are well-supported by creative, brilliant, and caring adults. 

I have been a teacher for 16 years. I grew up and went to university in Saskatoon. I’ve taught in Ontario, England, and now back in Saskatoon. I have been a department chair, middle leader, and teacher’s association representative for over a decade in both rural and urban schools. I have a Master’s degree in humanities education focused on citizenship development and increasing youth political engagement, and a graduate certificate focused on the history of settler-indigenous relations. I have been a member of the U of S Senate, sat on advisory groups for organizations like Amnesty, and served as an elementary and high school governor in the U.K., as well as a national teacher’s association district vice president and president. I am also a parent who appreciates the challenges of balancing work with home life. 

Teaching is changing. The work of the STA will be vital to shaping what our local school communities will look like in the years ahead. I hope to be able to offer my experiences as a teacher, leader, parent, advocate, and organizer to help our profession grow through this role.