(Fort McMurray) — Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and The Bouchier Group is proud to announce the 3rd nominee for the Women of Inspiration series 2019-2020. Shannon Noble: Ms. Noble is affectionately known as the “parent whisperer” by many who know her. She is a 30-year resident of Fort McMurray and joined the Fort McMurray Public School District (FMPSD) over seven years ago as Director of Student Services. Whether it was learning disability, medical, behavioural challenges or gifted students, Shannon would do what is “best for the kids” by being there for students and parents alike. Ms. Noble has touched so many lives with her quiet diligence and tireless advocacy for special and inclusive education across the region. As the Assistant Superintendent of Inclusive Education at the FMPSD, Ms. Noble is an integral member of the senior leadership team. The FMPSD Superintendent Doug Nicholls appreciates all that Ms. Noble does for both the School Board and her community. “Shannon is what makes leadership teams strong. We are appreciative of her countless efforts in supporting our students, staff and parents. There were numerous times during the wildfires when Shannon was our District Office staff’s support system as we continued to work in an Edmonton office. Along with her team, she ensured re-entry post wildfires went as smoothly as possible for all. She was critical in bringing many mental health grants, programs, and resources to FMPSD and the committees she supports. Shannon is one of the first to arrive and the last to leave. Dedication and diligence define her, and for that we are thankful,” noted Superintendent Nicholls. Ms. Noble does not confine her passion for accessible education to her work life. She is very involved in the community. She has been on the Hub’s board for a year. She also sits on the Regional Collaborative Service Delivery group to represent FMPSD. And about two years ago, she started a local Tourette ’s syndrome parent support group. Ms. Noble explains “this is an evening support group for FMPSD parents. I accessed resources from Tourette Canada. The idea is that these families will start a parent support group for everyone on their own just like we helped the Autism group (now the Autism Society of Wood Buffalo). My personal goal is to keep this Tourette’s group going for the next few years.” Tourette Canada noticed Shannon’s incessant efforts and gave her the Educator Award during National Volunteer Week last year. Ms. Noble did not publicly share this until now – humility and modesty being the cornerstones of her modus operandi. Her recent major award was made public, however. Ms. Noble shared the prestigious Citizen Recognition Program: Mayor and Council’s Toast of Champions award with the Fort McMurray Catholic District and the Canadian Red Cross. The trio won for the Wood Buffalo You Can Ride Program. Launched last June, the initiative provides adapted bikes so all children can have the opportunity to ride a bike. Once again, Shannon pushed to launch/promote the program behind the scenes, much to the delight of parents, many of whom watched their children ride a bike for the first time ever. The smiles and tears at the launch summed up what the program does. Whether it is in her work role or in her volunteer capacity, Ms. Noble is an inspiration and demonstrates what one person can accomplish with a warm heart and passion. She is a positive role model for girls to encourage them to succeed professionally and to give back to the community. Shannon has had a positive impact on any and all who have had the honour of meeting her. Ms. Noble and four other women will be celebrated at the Women of Inspiration Banquet in March 2020.