Rochelle Ivany is a Champion for Accessibility Finalist

June 3, 2026

The person who nominated Rochelle Ivany as a Champion for Accessibility described how Ivany’s commitment and care make students feel genuinely seen, honoured, cherished, and included. Whether supporting newcomers to Canada, arranging food hampers for families, or creating a school clothing closet, Ivany’s goal is to help students have the best experience they can in their day-to-day life at school. 

Ivany recently worked as a child and youth care worker at Leary Integrated Arts and Technology and is now an English Language Learner (ELL) and resource teacher at Chilliwack Middle School. 
“Rochelle was instrumental in removing barriers to dignity and belonging for students. She created a clothing room where students could access clean, gently used items in a respectful and supportive environment,” said principal Shelly Burke. “Rochelle is a true champion for accessibility and care, and I have no doubt that she continues to bring this same compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to student wellbeing into her role as a teacher.” 

In her work with English Language Learners, Ivany not only teaches students to read and write, but she also supports students as they learn about life in a new country. 
Working with practicum counselling students at the Chilliwack Youth Health Centre, Ivany facilitates a cognitive behavioural therapy group for students new to Canada. The students are mostly refugees who have experienced trauma. Alongside their peers, students develop strategies for managing challenging emotions and build skills to establish and maintain healthy friendships.

"These years that we work with these children, K-12, are so foundational,” says Ivany. “It takes one moment in one day to change a child's life.”  

Ivany and fellow finalists were honoured at the Champion for Accessibility Awards on Thursday, May 28th.