Tifanie Book

Tifani is a caring, responsible, and energetic principal that goes the extra mile to motivate and help her staff and students.

YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?

TB: I am most proud of the relationships I have made through my journey as an educator and coach, and my connections with students. These relationships sparked some of the programs I helped develop at Westwood. For example, the Busy Bean Cafe for students to get work experience and credits and provide a service for the school. I also pursued my Yoga teacher certification so I could start a school program to encourage life balance and to introduce yoga principles to junior high and senior high students to help them manage physical and mental health. My students taught Yoga to elementary students and their peers, and I have also taught to staff in the Division to promote wellness and balance.

YMM: What would you say to your 10-year-old self?

TB: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and take risks. That is when you will learn and grow the most.

YMM: Describe your perfect day in YMM.

TB: Time spent on the Birchwood Trails hiking, running or cross-country skiing, a Yoga class at Exhale, lunch at Mitchell’s, reading on my deck and taking my dog for a walk with my family.

YMM: For what are you most grateful?

TB: The health and happiness of my family.

YMM: What is something that people are always surprised to learn about you?

TB: Some of my previous jobs include a snowboard instructor throughout high school in Manitoba and chicken farmer in middle-school.

YMM: What is the biggest challenge you’ve taken on this year?

TB: I am shifting from Principal of a High School where I have worked for 16 years to Principal of an Elementary School. I am excited to work with a different age group of students and become part of the Thickwood family!