St. Catharines Mayor offers himself up to teachers for virtual class chats
Published January 11, 2022 at 4:13 pm
St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik knows the next little stretch is going to be a rough for students and teachers alike.
To that end, he’s hoping to offer them something a little more tangible than simple words of support. He’s offering himself.
That is, Sendzik is more than willing to do Zoom-chat with students and threw the offer open to the District School Board of Niagara, the Niagara Catholic District School Board and Ridley College.
“Hey Teachers – I know the next couple of weeks are going to be tough – so I am reaching out to help!” said Sendzik on Facebook, as well as Twitter. “I’m happy to jump on, have a chat with your students and give you a short break.”
Sendzik said teachers could direct message him on Twitter or Facebook, as well as send an email to: [email protected]
His offering prompted St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle to offer the same to teachers, should they like to discuss federal politics or local issues.
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Sendzik’s offer was overwhelming praised by constituents, many of whom clamoured onto his social media to tahnk him.
When one resident tweeted, “I hope the teachers take you up on this great idea,” Sendzik responded, “Oh they have!! Lots of bookings already. Dusting off the chains of office this weekend (January 8-9).”
That lead Bittle to note, “Happy to do it as well, however, I don’t have chains of office which may leave the students feeling a little disappointed.”
Noted one Facebooker, “Awesome. Love your community involvement always. Great experience for the kids!” while another said, “This measure of kindness and solidarity is what makes a great mayor! Good on you!”
A teacher jumped on to note, “My students sincerely enjoyed you visiting our class virtually before the Christmas break,” showing the mayor is not new to the online student sessions.
Added another, “Walter Sendzik, As a retired teacher watching all of this from the sidelines, I commend you!”
St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik is offering himself up to local teachers, letting them know he is more than willing to interact online with their students. (Photo: Facebook)