Gary Bauer, a retired classroom teacher explains how his time at Queen’s University enhanced his passion for physical education and experiential learning. After graduating with his Bachelor of Education in 1977, he embarked on a journey that would take him over 4,000 kms away from where it all began.
Today, Gary lives in a town called Watson Lake in the Yukon Territory. Watson Lake is situated on the traditional territory of the Liard First Nation peoples. Gary reflects on how he got here and the things he has learned along the way.
Gary's love for play and the outdoors started in childhood. He was always active, whether it was playing in the yard or making up games when opportunities didn’t present themselves. This enthusiasm carried through to his professional life. He first studied Human Kinetics at the University of Guelph and then followed his passion for experiential learning by pursuing his Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University. This foundation allowed him to inspire and engage his students in ways that mirrored his own interests.
Over the years, Gary has worn many hats in education—classroom teacher, guidance counselor, vice principal, and educational assistant—all while living in Watson Lake. His work has allowed him to build strong connections with students, colleagues, and the local community.
Gary explained that during his time teaching in Watson Lake, his classes participated in culture camps. These culture camps are run by Elders from the surrounding community. Depending on their ages, children were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of traditional activities such as berry picking, fishing, and drum making. Gary expressed his gratitude for the chance to oversee and participate in these activities, while learning more about the local area’s culture.
In keeping with his passion for play, Gary talked about his involvement with the school’s sports teams. Teams from neighbouring towns would come to Watson Lake where local families would billet the visiting players. Gary would help with coordinating the tournaments, and seeing to it that the teams always had an opportunity to play. Even to this day, Gary ensures that students have the chance to play.
Of course, moving to a new place with different cultural and educational practices came with its own set of challenges. “The biggest challenge I faced was within myself,” Gary explained. He explained that moving to a new place with different cultural and pedagogical practices made it hard to adjust his approach to teaching. Despite this, Gary was able to adapt to the ways of Watson Lake and carried out a career which would change him as a teacher, community member, friend, and person.
Looking back on his teaching career, some of Gary’s favourite memories come from the many educational outdoor trips he took his classes on. These trips allowed Gary to share his love for the outdoors with his students, while keeping it educational. One of these trips consisted of a week-long hike in the mountains! This opportunity may never have presented themselves to Gary if he hadn’t made the move to the Yukon.
Gary’s journey underscores the impact of his education at Queen’s University. The BEd program not only sparked his passion for teaching but also led him to a fulfilling career in the Yukon. When asked for advice for future educators, Gary simply says, “Find something you are passionate about and pursue it.” He remains grateful to Queen’s for igniting his love for teaching and guiding him on a path that has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.