WESTLOCK — Busby School’s new $2 million gymnasium has been officially named after teacher Rick Mueller, who is well-known within the community for his dedication to the school community and his involvement in local sports.
The surprise announcement came during the school’s spring tea on May 2, where Mueller was presented a plaque bearing his name in front of an audience of several dozen parents and community members, as well as other school staff and students.
“If you’ve been around Busby School for a while, you’ve probably heard of Mr. Mueller. His commitment to our school is legendary and his reputation precedes him,” said principal Angie Bachand.
Though Mueller first came to Busby about 25 years ago, Bachand said she had the pleasure of working with Mueller last year when he graciously came out of retirement “a second time” to serve as the Grade 5 teacher, whose position had been left vacant.
“His dedication to students, his passion for teaching, and his unwavering support for our school community are truly remarkable,” she said.
Bachand noted that even after his first retirement, Mueller continued to be an active and enthusiastic member of the community, helping to coach sports teams, cheer students on at a sporting event or just dropping by to watch an assembly.
Bachand observed that one of the things that makes Mueller special is the way he connects with students.
“It didn’t matter what grade he was teaching or subbing; in the moments students realize or find out that Mr. Mueller is coming to class, there’s an undeniable buzz of excitement,” she said.
In the short time they worked together, Bachand determined that one of Mueller’s main avenues of connecting with students was through sport.
“It’s not uncommon to find Mr. Mueller out on the pitch with our students, running up and down the field, guiding students on how to be a team and what true sportsmanship looks like,” she said.
“His ability to inspire and motivate our students is truly remarkable and he has had a lasting impact on so many young lives.”
Bachand concluded her presentation by thanking Mueller on his years of service and the positive impact he has had on students, staff and the community as a whole.
However, Bachand said there was “only one way” to truly recognize Mueller’s contributions, which is how Busby School staff came up with the idea of naming the new gym after him.
Mr. Mueller, your dedication, your passion and your commitment to our school community is truly inspiring
After being presented his plaque, Mueller said that he was “speechless” for the first time in 40-some years of teaching.
“I’m not sure who came up with the idea, but I know who I can thank,” he said.
Mueller went on to name the Busby School staff as a whole, the community and especially the students.
“You guys make Busby School the best school in Alberta,” he said.
Construction on Busby School’s new gymnasium, which is more than twice the size of its original gym at 186 square metres, first broke ground in 2021.
Work continued throughout the spring and summer of 2022 and the project, which also entailed converting the old gym into an all-purpose classroom, was eventually completed in 2023.
