Amiee Poirier
Elementary Teacher, David Maxwell and Ford City Public Schools
The Greek philosopher Plato said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight
to the imagination and life to everything.” He could very well have been speaking of Amiee
Poirier.
A music teacher at Dougall Public School for just 2 years, she had a profound impact on the
lives of her students and the entire school community. Amiee coached sports, organized events,
and worked fundraisers to provide extra-curricular opportunities.
The measure of her effect was not any larger than when she had to leave. Reassigned to have
her talents shared between 2 other schools, Amiee brought soul, wings, flight and life to David
Maxwell and Ford City public schools, but she didn’t abandon her previous engagement.
Left without an instrumental music teacher, Amiee returned to Dougall, on her own time,
Fridays after school, for months to give students the opportunity to practice their instruments
and receive vital instruction. They were even able to perform at the school’s Winter Concert.
Meanwhile she continued to give a full commitment at her new schools. Once she arrived at
Maxwell for a school spirit assembly dressed as a Ford City Falcon but made a quick change
into a blue ballerina costume for the pending event. She also still coaches basketball and
volleyball, organizes events and helps stage plays.
Regardless where Amiee had been hanging her coat during the days, she has been deeply
involved with Herman’s Helping Hands, an after-school and summer music program. She
recruits students, handles the paperwork, runs rehearsals and puts on concerts.
A former student wrote this, “If I say all of the things I love about Ms. Poirier then I’d be
writing this forever.”
Plato wrote, “Education is teaching our children to desire the right things.” Through her
outstanding service Amiee Poirier is a living example of that philosophy.
Greater Essex County District School Board
Outstanding Service Awards, May 16, 2017