Junior School physical education teacher Mary McLeish '89 was recognized for 25 years of teaching at St. Michaels University School during the annual Board of Governors staff appreciation dinner on May 1. This milestone celebrates her lasting contributions and deep-rooted presence in the school community.
Mary’s connection to SMUS spans decades. She attended the school from Grade 8 to 12, graduating in 1989 as part of the first group of girls to join SMUS. Her three siblings followed in her footsteps, also graduating from the school. That connection continues today with her children: Abby graduated in 2024 as a SMUS lifer, and Drew is set to graduate in 2027.
“My time as a student at SMUS was among the best years of my life, and I made many lifelong friendships,” Mary shared. “Now, having taught here for 25 years, I find myself going to parent-teacher meetings with students I taught in Kindergarten — and now they’re teaching my own children.”
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UBC and a Bachelor of Education from UVic, Mary returned to SMUS to begin her teaching career. She started as a substitute before moving into a half-time position — a role she holds to this day. She teaches physical education to Kindergarten and Grade 1 students, coaches track and field for Grades 3 to 5, and contributes annually to the Grade 5 musical by helping with hair and makeup.
“Twenty-five years have flown by,” she said. “I’ve been lucky enough to teach alongside amazing colleagues, and I hope I’ve made a small difference in the lives of the students I’ve taught along the way.”
A Lasting Legacy
Mary has seen the school evolve — from the days when the Christine Duke Theatre was a parking lot, to when there was a campus swimming pool and tennis court, and the driveway was still two-way. She even remembers Dougie Williams marching through the dorms, waking up boarding students with his bugle.
In her time at SMUS, she has worked with three Junior School Directors and has seen four Heads of School — soon to be five with the arrival of Dr. Jeff Aitken this August.
“No one particular moment stands out over the last 25 years,” she said. “It’s more a collection of wonderful memories embedded in the rituals that span the year from September to June. The final term is probably my favourite — the energy of track and field season and the Junior School Play is always a highlight. And, of course, COVID does stand out as a memorable blip in time.”
Mary was honoured during the dinner by her colleague Sarah Lund, who delivered a heartfelt tribute that included a thoughtful message from fellow teacher Duncan Frater, who was unable to attend in person.
"Mary is one of those rare people who is filled with a genuine sense of gratitude for all that she has," remarked Junior School art teacher Angelina Agathoklis, who retires this year after nearly 23 years with SMUS. "Her values are a strong guiding force for her in all aspects of her life. This ability to graciously walk her truth makes her a loving and committed mother, a dedicated and fair teacher, a supportive colleague who always has the time for someone in need, and a sincere and honest friend."
Though her story at SMUS is far from over, Mary shared a piece of advice for new faculty members:
“Embrace all the good the school has to offer. Venture outside your ‘classroom’ and get involved in other areas of the school so you can see students in different lights. Lean on your colleagues and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Education is a journey, and we are all here to learn from each other.”
Congratulations to Mary McLeish on 25 years of teaching at SMUS!
Three faculty members are highlighted this year for their 25-year milestone at SMUS. Read more about:
