District 8 - OSSTF and the Avon Maitland District School Board hosted the 17th annual celebration of the Excellence in Public Education Awards earlier this month recognizing the efforts of the people who make our schools better places to learn and work.
Our goal is to recognize excellence in all areas of public education in Avon Maitland - whether it is the student who has enriched the atmosphere of the secondary school, the teacher or support staff member who has encouraged excellence through their contribution to the school, the community member whose contribution has improved the school environment, or the trustee or administrator who commits to ensuring the educational experience is a positive one.
Excellence is worth celebrating!
Here are some video highlights of the evening of celebration recorded and produced by Matt Southgate, a Communications Technology student at CHSS, who is currently in a Coop placement with the Avon Maitland Creative Services department.
Here are the 2015 Award Winners (click on picture to enlarge)
Avon Maitland District School Board
Coralee Mathews — ESL Coordinator
Coralee Mathews started teaching in 1990; her career began as an ESL teacher working with First Nation students in Northern Alberta and Northern Ontario. Coralee self identifies as Metis and maintains close ties with First Nation communities, sharing information and resources to support Aboriginal Education.
Coralee began her career in AMDSB in 1998; she is an ESL Specialist coordinating ESL Programming and support for the board. Coralee has taught and developed ESL / ELD intervention programs for elementary students and ESL and ELD courses for secondary students. In addition to her work for AMDSB, Coralee taught and developed ESL Additional Qualification courses for teachers at Brock University: ESL 1, 2, and Specialist.
Coralee maintains ESL websites (www.amdsbesl.com) and is currently working on developing interactive online resources for AMDSB's International Education ESL program.
D&D Automation — Community Member
D&D Automation, headed by President Michael McCourt, has been an educational partner of significance for many years. Mike and his two co-founders were influenced by their own experiences in the Avon Maitland system. However D&D’s commitment to being active in education goes much deeper than that.
Prominent in the D&D head office is their ‘Bull’s Eye’ logo, demonstrating the philosophy of the company’s charitable giving. The company’s priority target is youth focused. Avon Maitland schools have benefitted from Mike and his team hitting the ‘bull’s eye’ many times over.
This past spring AMDSB was tasked by the Ministry to select a community partner for a pilot project focused on Specialist High Skills Major students and emphasizing Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship. D&D Automation willingly provided employee resources, financial assets were applied generously, and an additional community partner was brought in to make the day an enormous success. Ministry of Education personnel present were extremely pleased with D&D’s support and will feature their involvement at an upcoming provincial event. D&D hosted two robotics competitions giving twenty schools the opportunity to participate. D&D Automation has been a great partner in promoting student outcomes and innovative learning in our schools.
As both a community partner and educational stakeholder, D&D Automation has always had a vision of looking to the future. That vision is translated into action by many AMDSB students having Cooperative Education placement opportunities at D&D to hone their skills and experience the benefits of working in one of Canada’s top companies.
D&D Automation is a valued partner in education and is most deserving of the AMDSB Excellence in Education Award.
Community Services Managers — Perth and Huron
Five years ago, the Ministry of Education asked school boards and childcare managers to consider what a renewed vision would look like for the children of Ontario. With the introduction of Full Day Early Learning Kindergarten the system, as a whole, needed to change. We acknowledged we were striving for high quality care in the school system and in the daycares. We were on the verge of modernizing the childcare system, while finding ways to provide seamless care for children between school boards and childcares.
Barb Hobson (Stratford Childcare Manager) and Michele Gayner (Huron Social Service Manager) have played an integral role in supporting this transition within the Huron and Perth counties. It is with great pride that we acknowledge their partnership with the educators of Avon Maitland District School Board and their participation in Ministry-level training to ensure that we have on-going conversations about our Early Learning Programs to ensure seamless continuation of experiences and support for our children and families.
Both Michele and Barb continue to demonstrate their commitment for our children in Huron and Perth through their active roles in a variety of community committees, where they advocate for the well being of our children and education for our parents. It is with great pleasure that we acknowledge their dedication and contributions for the children in both the Huron and Perth communities.
Jenny Versteeg — Trustee
Jenny Versteeg served as trustee with the Avon Maitland District School Board from December 2003 to December 2014, representing North Perth. During Jenny’s tenure with the Board she held the position of Chair in 2007, 2009, 2010 and 2012, and Vice Chair in 2006 and 2008. Jenny was an active member on all board committees throughout her 11 years as trustee. Jenny’s attention to detail and leadership was evident throughout all aspects of Board functions including accommodation reviews, negotiations, policy reviews and financial matters. Jenny represented her community well, and she was instrumental in promoting North Perth to be a "community of character". She ensured that the schools within her area were well connected through regional School Council meetings which she organized and chaired. Most of all, Jenny will be remembered for her commitment to, and care for the students in our District, and the stories she loved to tell related to her rural roots were always connected in one way or another to ensuring students received the best education possible. Jenny's passion, dedication and service to public education make her a most worthy recipient of an Excellence in Public Education Award!
OSSTF—ESS (Education Support Staff)
Lou–Ann Frook
Lou-Ann Frook is a hardworking, dedicated educator. As an Educational Assistant at Little Falls Public School she always puts her students’ needs first. Her firm and consistent manner ensures that the students become as independent as they can be and achieve their highest potential. Lou-Ann goes above and beyond so that students can be successful. Lou-Ann has a tutoring group after school for grade 6 students. Students often come back for another 8 week session because "Mrs. Frook is Awesome!" Lou-Ann has the skills to teach the students many different strategies to get to the problems solved.
This year Lou-Ann has taken the lead with Little Falls EA’s to collaborate and coordinate, to share knowledge and strategies. This professional development has been a hit with the team.
As her union representative she is a wonderful support for co-workers and ESS members throughout the District. Lou-Ann has been the bargaining unit Educational Services Officer for many years and has been a tireless leader in PD planning.
Lou-Ann is an asset to Little Falls Public School and to the ESS Bargaining Unit - she is a professional through and through. Lou-Ann takes on every task with confidence and achieves every goal with grace. She is most deserving of this award.
Diana Doctor
Diana Doctor has encouraged excellence in education through her contribution to her workplace environment.
As a Computer Trainer at the LRC, she is a diligent worker who often puts in extra hours to finish projects on time. She keeps herself up-to-date on the latest software and new and upcoming technology . Her door is always open to assist others. She patiently takes the time to explain or train both co-workers and students, Diana loves to share her knowledge with others. Diana enjoys creating her own courses in iTunes U. She is well respected for her knowledge and skill and her ability to effectively share these with others. Diana loves to take on a challenge when trouble shooting all areas of technology.
Diana has taken on many large projects including creating and presenting internet safety workshops for students parents and staff.
Diana puts the interests of the students first by doing her best to be sure they are informed, safe and prepared.
Don Hardy
If you have ever accessed a WIFI connection anywhere in the Avon Maitland District School Board, Don Hardy had a big part in making that possible. Don has been working in the IT department for close to 19 years, starting out as a Hardware Technician and then as a Network Technician.
Don's many responsibilities include monitoring and maintaining the wide area network and being the "go to" guy for the wireless systems. Don has set up hundreds of wireless access points and monitors them daily to ensure students and staff stay connected in this digital age.
His dedication and no nonsense approach has greatly contributed to the success of the NGL iPad project. Although Don's work is mostly behind the scenes he is well known in every building in Avon Maitland and leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets.
Linda Wray
Linda Wray is very deserving of the "2015 Excellence in Education Award" for her contribution to the students and staff at Goderich Public School in her role as a TRA.
She started working for the AMDSB in 1980 as an Educational Assistant and now as a Technical Resource Assistant for the past 17 years, working at Robertson Memorial School, Victoria Public School and currently at Goderich Public School.
She daily goes above and beyond the expectations of her job description as a TRA. She keeps the library very organized and nicely decorated . She regularly reads stories to the kindergarten classes (all 5 of them) and occasionally sets up crafts for them and other students. She has classic board games set up in the library for children to learn and enjoy . She spends countless hours setting up and running two very successful book fairs, acquiring many new books for the school library. On top of looking after the computer lab for our very large school, she has now taken on more responsibility with the addition of 140 iPads used by teachers, students and support staff which she oversees.
With all the new technology she is constantly updating equipment , troubleshooting problems, replacing cartridges in our printers, explaining and demonstrating uses of new equipment , and she is always there to help with technical difficulties at assemblies.
She encourages students to learn at GPS by setting up computer programs requested by teachers prior to their lab visits and helps individual students on a daily basis.
Linda's hard work and dedication to her job makes GPS a better place.
Michelle Blake
Michelle Blake is in every way an asset to her Union as an ECE representative, and to the children she teaches at Goderich Public School, and is very deserving for an award in excellence.
Michelle has been an EA since October of 2005, working at many schools within our school board. She is also a graduate of Fanshawe college in Early Childhood Education and has worked as an ECE from 2011 the present date. She is currently employed as a DECE at Goderich Public School.
If Michelle's co-worker's at GPS, or the children in her classroom could describe Mrs. Blake in 1 word, my guess is that they would all say "FUN". Michelle delivers exceptional learning experiences for those in her classroom. Her delivery of inquiry and inquiry centres in the class is like a model for inquiry based learning environments.
For her fellow ECE's that Michelle is our go-to girl. she is one of those people that "has something for everything". She is a passionate bargain hunter and her collections of materials are extensive because of that. All jokes aside, her passion really lies with the young ones that she teaches. The children benefit from that passion for sure!
Michelle spends countless hours outside of her regular paid day to put material together and set up classroom activities like crafts, dramatic centres, language and math activities, science table, inquiries, documentation and learning stories. She does this with such energy and passion.
Having Michelle Blake as an ECE in our school, makes us a better place.
Central Huron Secondary School
Jordan Berard — Student
Jordan Berard contributes to many aspects of school life at Central Huron. She works for high academic achievement and shares her knowledge with other students as a tutor. She is an intuitive and curious learner. Jordan has routinely been top of her class academically across all subject areas. She works well collaboratively and provides opportunities for her peers to work to the best of their abilities.
Jordan shines in the area of sports participation. She competes in cross country as well as track and field. Jordan is a quiet leader on these teams and is encouraging to all teammates. She participates in Nordic skiing and has also competed in the high school figure skating arena. Not only does she compete, she often does so in individual sports in which she is most eager to smash her own personal best standing. Her dedication and drive often allow her to do just that.
Jordan's conscientious and thoughtful manner make her an asset to any class, team or activity, as she strives to learn everything she can from each opportunity.
Jordan's personality, perseverance and academic achievement leave no doubt that she will enjoy success in all aspects of life.
Sarah MacGregor — Student
Sarah MacGregor works conscientiously and diligently in her classes, displaying a genuine interest in learning. She will take the time to seek additional clarification whenever required.
Sarah contributes to her school through both the arts and athletics. She has practiced, toured, and performed with several of the CHSS bands. She has also been competitive in the girls' curling teams. In her Junior years Sarah participated in Reach For The Top.
In her community Sarah is extremely involved with her church and her youth group. She is active with the United Church of Canada's young leaders' program and has been chosen as a youth delegate to attend their conference in Newfoundland this coming summer. Sarah has been a camper and subsequently a youth councillor at the United Church's Camp Menesetung in Goderich.
Sarah's contributions to her classes, her school and her community have always been varied and meaningful; she is well-deserving of this award.
Sarah Jardine — Community
CHSS has benefited greatly from Sarah's willingness to volunteer at the school. She has worked in numerous classrooms with many students. She is a natural when it comes to introducing herself to a student, showing an interest in what they are doing and in them as a person. It does not take a student long to discover Sarah's abilities.
In addition to having been an excellent student herself, she is a licenced financial advisor with her own business. Sarah has spent many hours with one student in particular who is taking an accounting course through AMDEC. I know this student understands what an incredible resource she has in Sarah and has developed a great appreciation for her.
Sarah seems not to be a person for whom the question "What's in it for me?" has relevance, nor does she seek recognition. For these reasons and many more, Sarah is most deserving of this honour.
Carrie Durand — Teacher
Carrie Durand is one of those rare high-achievers who seems to be able to maintain balance in her life even within the high stress levels of her job.
She runs the Special Education department incredibly efficiently. Her organizational skills are evident in the sense she meets every deadline and encourages everyone to do the same. During exams and the literacy tests she has every detail mapped out clearly weeks before necessary to avoid any last minute surprises. And if a crisis occurs, she handles it in her calm demeanor.
Carrie's professional, yet sensitive meetings with parents and students are to be admired. She knows how to use effective words, messages, ideas for improvement and perfect tone of voice to accommodate everyone. She makes each student feel comfortable, accepted and successful.
She embraces all new technology, programs & informative meetings that are introduced, and is up-to-date on any and all of the latest expectations of her position. A wealth of resources, teachers only have to ask for assistance, and she will have solutions by the end of the day.
Carrie is a huge benefit to our school atmosphere as well, going beyond ordinary with school bulletin boards for OSADD. Carrie is certainly an asset to CHSS life.
F.E. Madill Secondary School
Taylor Wright — Student
Taylor Wright is a grade 12 student who has made a lot of progress throughout her high school career from originally working towards a certificate to now being very close to obtaining her OSSD. She is a very reliable, hard working student, making the most out of opportunities available. She is a member of the rugby team where she takes on the role of a silent leader who actively participates. She displays a positive attitude and is very encouraging of others. Taylor is definitely a worthy student deserving of recognition.
Kyle Dickert — Student
Kyle Dickert is a model student in that he puts his best effort into every assignment he is given. He is also pleasant, polite, out-going and co-operative. In addition to working several jobs, he has made time to volunteer for the Howick Fall Fair and Figure Skating Club, Belmore and Saugeen Bluffs Maple Syrup Festivals, Christmas in the Country, Clifford Truck Show, a church fish fry and seniors meals. Kyle has also received the Saugeen Conservation Authority's Major Volunteer Award.
Cherilyn Trick — Teacher
Cherilyn Trick exemplifies excellence routinely but in a very unpretentious and modest manner. As the drama teacher and teacher adviser of the drama club at F. E. Madill, Cherilyn dedicates endless hours towards rehearsals, productions, trips and other drama-related activities throughout the year. In fostering a love of drama in so many students, Cherilyn simultaneously builds students' confidence and skills, allowing many students to go far beyond their presumed capabilities. Cherilyn allows students to feel a sense of belonging where they might otherwise struggle to do so.
Annually, Cherilyn brings students to the Sears Drama Festival, she plans field trips, helps to run assemblies and organizes special events within and outside of the school, such as Spring Alive. In the school, Cherilyn is dedicated to student success, is a member of the OSSLT committee and is working diligently to include modified students within her classroom. Cherilyn's respectful nature, charisma and dedication mark her as a valued colleague. She is often quiet in her endeavours, yet her actions and the effects of such speak volumes.
Paul Cronin — Teacher
Paul Cronin has been, and continues to be an excellent teacher and department head. In the classroom, Paul maintains high standards and works hard to help students reach them. He is always working on new experiments of new ways to use technology in the classroom. As a department head, he listens to concerns and works to resolve them. Paul shares new ideas with genuine enthusiasm and supports colleagues in their efforts to innovate.
Goderich District Collegiate Institute
Logan Curran — Student
Logan has been described by his teachers as a motivated and enthusiastic student who has a real desire to learn. Logan has been involved in Student Counsel and later the Student Leadership group, helping to organize events and bringing spirit to GDCI.
Logan has also been an active member of OSAID for three years, putting in many hours organizing and participating in activities and campaigns about raising awareness of the dangers of impaired driving.
Logan is also very active in his community. He has been a member of the Dungannon youth group for five years, where he started as a member and moved up to a leadership role in which he is responsible for planning and running community events, including youth camps. He has helped with the Dungannon Fall Fair and volunteered at the Goderich Museum. In his spare time, Logan works at the Lucknow arena.
Macey Glassford — Student
Within Goderich District Collegiate Institute, Macey is involved in a variety of extra curricular activities. In grade 9 Macey joined Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving attending the provincial conference and volunteering at the craft show and many other campaigns promoting safe driving habits and raising awareness of the risks of impaired and distracted driving.
In her senior years at GDCI Macey has been an active member of the Student Leadership Team, working to plan events to create an enthusiastic school culture. She was elected by the administrative staff at GDCI to represent the Goderich and area student voice at the AMDSB level as a Student Senator. She has represented student voice additionally on the GDCI Safe Schools committee, working to initiate a safe inclusive learning environment for all students.
Macey was involved in the Princess Project as president this current school year, organizing and promoting the lending of donated dresses to students financially in need or simply without a prom dress. Macey is currently on the Prom Committee working on organizing, planning and fundraising to bring the senior students of GDCI an incredible prom night.
Macey has been a valuable member of the Jr volleyball team, and when sidelined by knee surgery, she served as a Jr coach. Macey is a postive influence who is always willing to help others.
Outside of GDCI, Macey is an equestrian and riding assistant at Wilsher Stables and works at Subway. Macey has volunteered as an assistant coach with a Benmiller youth baseball team, at the Goderich Celtic festival, the Goderich Triathlon, sewn pillows for children in hospitals with Kindness for Kids Inc., and as a day camp counselor at Wilsher Stables Horsing Around horse camp.
Jenn Skelding — Administrator
Jenn Skelding has only been at GDCI for 3 years, but the impact she has made on the culture of the school will be long lasting. If you could only use one word to sum up Jenn, it would have to be ‘joyful’. She really is full of joy and spreads that feeling on a daily basis to both staff and students. Whether it be through impromptu dance parties in the hallways of GDCI or Jenn running around in a Viking costume at a staff meeting, you can’t help but smile when she is around.
Jenn has been teaching for 20 years and has taught grades 4 through 12. She has also worked for the International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs, has been a Literacy and Numeracy Resource teacher, and most recently, administration at GDCI. Jenn is a passionate and caring teacher and leader who supports and encourages personal growth of staff and students.
Jenn is married to her husband Bernie, a Presbyterian minister, and together they have three awesome children: Hannah, 17, Reid, 15, and Leif, 13 plus one small dog, Teebo. Jenn will be starting a new chapter in her life in British Columbia soon and will be greatly missed at GDCI.
Greg Murray — Teacher
Greg’s Murray’s work in the Hospitality room has been tireless and demanding since he started at GDCI. He was here to oversee the complete renovation of a classroom and turn it into a functional and efficient kitchen. As a result, he has been able to help students develop a love and appreciation for the culinary arts.
Greg encourages students to pursue their own creative interests in order to put together tasty and memorable recipes. He also allows students to see the very real demands and timelines inherent in working in a kitchen. Greg’s program also helps students to see the business side of the hospitality industry. He has instilled an interest in the Foods industry, even contributing to a number of them pursuing the culinary arts as a career.
Greg has also been responsible for the cafeteria on a daily basis for years - not an easy job. He also had to manage the transition from “anything goes” in the cafeteria to the implementation of healthy and nutritious guidelines - despite initial resistance from many students. The quality of his efforts has resulted in winning over the students and staff at GDCI.
Greg’s catering services have helped countless meetings, functions and events go off without a hitch. Those early mornings should not be overlooked. In addition to all of this, Greg has been an advocate for the inclusion of students with developmental disabilities. Greg was one of the first (if not the first) teacher at GDCI to welcome students with significant needs into his class. He has successfully fostered meaningful inclusion experiences for many students which has contributed positively to the overall school culture at GDCI.
Listowel District Secondary School
Angel Ernest — Student
Angel is in her fifth year at LDSS. She is a quiet, compassionate soul who puts kindness and caring for others above her own needs. Over the years, in Drama, she grew from a timid, shy junior to a confident, creative senior. She belongs to our extra curricular Drama club and has been to the Sears festival with us for the past two years. She has become an integral part of our cast and crew and her maturity and nurturing nature make her a draw for other students.
Angel is also volunteering as a Peer Leader in a grade 10 Drama class. She gives up her spare period to do this. She assists and encourages students with special needs. She works especially well at including everyone in a projects, cheerleading students' successes and efforts, and helping me to guide the class as a whole. Angel also volunteered last year in the DD classroom where she developed a special bond with many of these students.
These experiences have led Angel to decide upon a career where she can work with kids and kids with special needs. It is my belief that this is where she will excel. She has a wonderful leadership style, with a gentle, friendly nature that make her a rare and valuable find.
Amelia Hartung — Student
Amelia is an active member of student council at LDSS. Her unending spirit and enthusiasm are evident in everything she does. She is always smiling and is an example of kindness and compassion for all of us to follow. Amelia goes out of her way to make everyone feel included and will strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere.
She is the voice of LDSS, reading the daily announcements, and her bright and cheery disposition is contagious even over the airwaves. Amelia is also an active participant in the North Perth Players, a newly-formed local theatre group.
Because she genuinely embodies all of the qualities in our community of character, Amelia is a worthy recipient of the Excellence in Education award at LDSS.
Jennifer Judge — Educational Assistant
Jenn Judge is a most deserving recipient of this year's Excellence in Education Award. As an educational assistant at LDSS, she has an innate ability to make all students and staff feel valued, appreciated and loved. She is a leader whose quiet presence makes a world of difference in the lives of the teachers she assists and the students she supports. She understands that it is not about her but about the success of her students. She has this wisdom to know just the right words to say and just the right nudges to provide to make most days, good days for her students.
Jenn is Always Learning. She is eager to try new technologies that will foster greater independence and success in the lives of her students. She attends workshops on her own time and will often share her new learnings with others in her department. When confronted with a challenging situation, Jenn finds a way to stay optimistic about the possibilities and realistic about her next steps. She assumes competency in others even when they don't see it for themselves.
LDSS is fortunate to have Jenn. She is a patient, caring, compassionate, selfless educational assistant. She doesn't want the recognition but this woman deserves it!
Brenda Leis — Educational Assistant
Brenda Leis has worked as an Educational Assistant at LDSS for approximately 12 years. She has been an integral part of the Life Skills program but has also spent some time working in regular classrooms. She is one of the strongest EAs in the school –strong because she is firm but also caring with students.
She is not afraid of doing the ‘dirty work’ that sometimes comes with the territory despite her diminutive size. She is also flexible and can adapt to many different situations. She has strong technological skills and has been a great help to the teaching staff when using Boardmaker, ProLoQuo2Go or the many iPad apps used in the Life Skills program.
Whenever the question comes up, “Who do you think would be best to do this job or task?” Brenda’s name will often be brought forward. She willingly accepts challenges that others might hesitate to undertake. In addition to accepting her EA responsibilities she enthusiastically participates and has assisted with the LDSS girls softball team.
Mitchell District High School
Alyssa Bublitz — Student
Alyssa plays an active role in many areas of student life at Mitchell High School. This year she has taken on a lead role in the planning and implementing of student council activities as social convener and advertising representative. With the new development of the Blue Devils' social media sites, she has spent many hours keeping students informed of extra-curricular and academic activities within the school, resulting in a significant impact on school spirit. Her enthusiastic and outgoing personality provides a positive energy that encourages and enhances student participation in school events. She has instigated creative new projects as a confident member of student council, with a clear insight into possible challenges, along with problem solving strategies.
Alyssa has also maintained consistently high achievement in her academic pursuits throughout her high school career, actively participating in classroom activities, and collaborating with others as a positive role model. She is always willing to provide assistance when needed, while demonstrating her excellent work ethic and an appreciation for diversity among the student body. Alyssa has also participated in school drama productions, as well as being a member of the yearbook team, displaying her talents in the arts. Her all-round school achievements and pursuits in extra-curricular activities as a student at Mitchell high school have made her a very deserving recipient of this award of student excellence.
Mikayla McMann — Student
Mikayla McMann is a dedicated student committed to helping others and to challenging herself and taking risks as she learns. In addition to her academic studies, Mikayla is very active in extra curricular work with Student's Council, teaching Sunday School, and dance.
Mikayla loves to dance and is an assistant dance instructor at the Mitchell School of Dance. She shares her passion at school as she participates in assemblies without hesitation as part of the Blue Devil Spirit Crew.
Mikayla is very aware of the importance of respecting diversity and inclusion and consistently encourages and supports her peers. Mikayla is always keen to help others and is a kind, compassionate person. Congratulations Mikayla!
AJ Moses — Community Member
For the past several years AJ Moses has been a part of the MDHS team. He is a staunch supporter of the Mitchell community and local High School. AJ’s hard work and dedication to student life and community is unparalleled.
For many years, AJ has coached Boys and Girls basketball at MDHS providing them not only the necessary skills to be successful on the court, but also modelling important life skills such as leadership, fair play and school spirit off the court. He also has been known to coach various track and field sports and whatever other sport requires a coach.
AJ is a valuable contributor to the athletics program at MDHS and promotes the athletic and social development of all students. His hard work, pride in hometown and tireless effort to make MDHS and the Mitchell community an inclusive environment deserves recognition! Great job AJ!
Diana MacLeod — Teacher
Diana gives so much of her time and spirit to create a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere in her classroom and in the school. She has built her Literacy classes beautifully and continues to find new and interesting ways for students to improve their skills. Diana is not only able to build a strong rapport with her students, but she also builds their confidence as she teaches effective techniques that will improve her student's understanding and success in each of their classes. She has high expectations of her students and celebrates with them when they succeed.
On top of her dedication to improved literacy, Diana is also a great coach. She led her junior girls basketball team to a WOSSAA gold this year by fostering an environment of hard work and camaraderie. She pushes students and athletes to achieve their best and cheers them on along the way.
Diana sets an amazing example for students and young teachers to follow and we are lucky to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from her.
South Huron District High School
Jillian Bjelan — Student
Jillian Bjelan is a student at South Huron District High School who demonstrates every day great effort and determination towards achieving the lofty goals that she sets for herself. Jillian is heavily involved in the school culture at SHDHS, by being an active member of the student council, music and drama councils during all four years of her high school career. Jillian has been a member of the Intermediate and Senior concert bands, jazz band, school shows and other dramatic endeavours. She was especially busy as the stage manager of this year’s Sears festival entry, and as well as doing sound for the school Cabaret. Jillian is also very involved in drama productions at a professional level outside of school.
Her involvement in education goes well beyond the school walls of SHDHS and into the broader community, where she serves as a student senator at AMDSB board meetings and provides a strong student voice for the students at SHDHS. Jillian has enjoyed the opportunity of meeting with her fellow senators, and helped organize a student symposium on inclusion, and conducted a survey regarding students’ mental health. Jillian advocates for her fellow students and follows through to ensure those voices are heard.
She plans to attend King’s College at Western University to study peace and social justice issues. Jillian's involvement and enthusiasm for being involved in her school community is the fuel that powers our public education system and above all, Jillian's love of learning and willingness to get involved at all levels of our system is what makes her most deserving of this award. Jillian’s proud parents are Joan Bradley and Nick Bjelan of Hensall.
Sarah Kwajafa — Student
Sarah Kwajafa is an outstanding student, athlete, and leader both at South Huron DHS and in the community. She is well known and respected by both staff and students and has made a positive impact on the school and her peers. Sarah has been the top student in her grade for the past three years, and was the recipient of several "top mark" awards in a variety of subjects. Her average on the Honour Roll has been over 90% each year in high school.
Sarah is a strong provincial level athlete. She skates competitively with the Exeter Skating Club where she has won many skating competitions over the years. She is a member of our tennis, badminton, track and cross country teams. She has qualified for the OFSAA track and cross country championships three times each, and given her record it is likely that she will qualify again this spring for OFSAA track. Sarah’s times in track are among the best in the province for her age group.
Sarah has been on Student Council each year in high school and serves as the Premier this year. She is a confident, capable leader with whom the other members respect and enjoy working, She has been on the Formal committee and has attended several student leadership conferences, the Rotary Adventures in Citizenship program, and MedQuest. Sarah has been an integral part of our “Team Transition” a group of students who plan and lead activities for new grade nine students. She is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that all students at South Huron feel welcome and comfortable in the school.
Outside of school Sarah has been a CanSkate program assistant, a vacation bible school leader, and a competitor with the London Legion Track Club, all while holding down a part-time job and making time for her academics and other interests. Sarah plans to attend university to study life sciences/health sciences with the aim of entering the medical field. Sarah’s proud parents are Eleanor Salmon and Adam Kwajafa of Dashwood.
Lauryn Overholt — Student
Lauryn Overholt is a very active member of South Huron District High School. She is very involved in athletics: Lauren is the captain for the field hockey team, where she demonstrates tremendous skill and leadership. She is very appreciative of the dedication of her coaches, especially Mr. Workman, for the lessons that she has learned which will stay with her for the rest of her life. She plays on the ice hockey team, and recently travelled with them during March Break for a playing/cultural tour of Europe. Lauryn plays on the soccer team as well. This means that she plays a major sport during each of the fall, winter, and spring seasons.
While doing all this, Lauryn has worked very diligently at her studies, consistently making the honour roll with a very heavy course load of maths and sciences in preparation for university studies in biomedical studies at Guelph, or perhaps a B. Sc. at Dalhousie.
This year Lauryn is contributing to other areas of the school by heading the athletic council and formal committees. The goals of the athletic council are to increase school spirit, and promote healthy, active living. The athletic council has held a number of successful events such as spirit days, and last year’s athletic assembly under her direction. As the head of the formal committee, Lauryn coordinates the efforts of the senior class in order to put on the semi-formal and formal for the student body.
Lauryn demonstrates excellence and leadership in three important aspects of school life at South Huron - athletics, academics, and social events - everything we are looking for in our students. Lauryn’s proud parents are Paul and Colleen Overholt of Exeter.
Kelsey Regier — Student
Kelsey Regier has proven herself to be an exemplary student at SHDHS; one who takes her academic studies and extracurricular activities very seriously. What sets Kelsey apart from her peers is her willingness to devote incredible amounts of extra time to completely immerse herself in her community, and the learning opportunities around her. On numerous occasions, Kelsey has impressed her teachers with her willingness to go beyond the expectations placed on her, to take calculated risks and make long-term, deep, commitments, all with the goal of achieving excellence. She has become one of the key players in our various ensembles, as well as demonstrating her amazing leadership abilities on the SHDHS Music Council, where she has served as both the Vice President, and this year as President. Her love of music is one of her strongest traits, and her energy and enthusiasm is infectious, much to the benefit of the SHDHS music program.
An inquisitive, teachable, and passionate student in our building, Kelsey has also embraced many outside opportunities such as the Ontario Provincial Honour Band (2 years), the Denis Wick Canadian Wind Orchestra (2014), The University of Western Ontario Symphonic Band (2 years) and many other enrichment opportunities. All of this is in addition to her studies, where she has consistently excellent marks, making the honour roll every year; the many ensembles and commitments within our music program, and a part time job. Her work has been very impressive, and despite the fact that she is one of the busiest people in the school, she goes about it in a very focused, decisive manner. She never makes excuses, and can be counted upon to deliver on her commitments every time. Kelsey plans to study music at Western, with the ultimate aim of attaining a master’s degree. Her proud parents are Norm and Barb Regier of Dashwood.
St. Marys District Collegiate and Vocational Institute
Taylor Simpson—Student
Taylor Simpson is a definite role model for other students at DCVI. She has returned for a fifth year to define her direction and take courses that were of interest to her that did not otherwise fit in. She is someone who wants the full experience but recognized it could only happen for her in five years. An Ontario Scholar at graduation, she has continued to maintain this average with her choice this year. This is exceptional when you consider what else Taylor tries to pack into her day at school. Extra curricular activities are very important to Taylor. She is a member of several teams - at least one per season, while also being involved in other groups such as Inclusion at DCVI, Peers Working With Peers - where she is an active mentor and an executive member involved in planning and organizing activities to assist grades with their transition to high school. Taylor is also a peer tutor and a classroom assistant in grade 9 French on a volunteer basis. Her love of education and DCVI is naturally visible by all that she is!
Raven Lovering — Student
Raven is our current Deputy Prime Minister of Student Government. She is also a co-chair for our Global Voices committee..Not enough? Raven is also on track to be on the honour roll for her third year in a roll. Still not enough? Raven did not become a student at DCVI until September in her grade 10 year and is currently just finishing her grade 11 year.
Raven is an exceptional student who has quickly immersed herself into DCVI. Leadership, organization and committed are three words that best describe Raven. She sees a goal and nothing can stand in her way to completing that task - not academic or leadership based.
Everyone at DCVI knows who Raven Lovering is and that she gets things done! This quiet, reserved but feisty female is know by her face and name at DCVI by all grades 7 -12.
Excellence in education is by definition - Raven Lovering.
Sandra Shorthouse — Educational Assistant
Sandra’s support as an Educational Assistant at DCVI is exceptional. Her positive spirit and dedication to our students have improved our DCVI community in innumerable ways.
Sandra has worked patiently with our developmentally challenged students to further their inclusion in curriculum areas. She is always willing to seek out inventive ways to accommodate a variety of learning needs and is enthusiastic to embrace new technologies. She advocates for her students and is determined to provide them with the best learning opportunities possible.
Sandra has transformed the after school Homework Help program to be a more supportive and inviting environment for all students particularly those resistant to traditional in-school supports.
She is an energetic and engaged participant in the DCVI Music Program. Sandra leads the low brass section of the DCVI Wind Ensemble. This requires her to commit to bi-weekly practices at 7:30am. Her help and support during rehearsals is invaluable and she always has excellent ideas for literature choices and event planning. In addition, she has chaperoned many excursions with the music department and all her time has been volunteered and unsolicited.
Sandra is a tremendous asset to our school. She is a kind and supportive colleague who is helpful, proactive and always eager to build a cooperative community that affirms the respectful development of the whole person. She is very deserving of an award celebrating excellence in education.
Chris Marcou — Teacher
Chris Marcou is an exceptional science teacher at DCVI; he is also an exceptional leader and colleague. He gives freely of his time to foster a positive environment for staff, and build a positive learning environment and school community for his students.
Chris coaches team sports, runs intramural activities and co-ordinates the Terry Fox Run at DCVI every year. He is a passionate educator who routinely engages in solutions-oriented discussions regarding advancing educational research, collaborative teaching methods and best practises for reaching at risk students.
Chris is a leader in training and supporting colleagues who are new to science curriculum or to the school in general, ensuring a warm, welcoming and supportive environment. His positivity and energy are infectious, infusing DCVI with a sense of purposeful activity, and a can-do attitude that inspires his students and colleagues alike.
Stratford Central Secondary School
Matt Knarr — Student
Matt's creativity, focus and dedication have allowed him to excel in all aspects of school life at Stratford Central. He has focused on media related courses including Radio and Sound Production, Communications Technology, and Film Production. His creativity and hard work not only earns him strong grades but also the respect of his peers.
Matt demonstrates strong leadership qualities while maintaining a calm approach in everything he does. In every course he has displayed strong creative abilities and a great commitment to developing new skills and has consistently pushed himself to further his knowledge with each project.
Beyond his strong leadership skills Matt has demonstrated a keen interest in school and community activities. He is the President of the film club, RamCast at Stratford Central, and is an active member of Theatre Central having directed multiple stage performances for the school drama club. Matt has also participated in many community events and is currently creating a promotional video for Stratford Tourism on the theatre experience here in Stratford.
Julia Ranney — Student
Julia is a very thoughtful and caring individual who is always willing to help others. She displays a positive and outgoing attitude, which has only enhanced her academic and extracurricular participation within the school.
Julia played an instrumental role as team captain of the Senior Girls volleyball team. On the court she utilized her excellent communication skills allowing her to earn the respect of her teammates. Julia was also a part of the soccer and cross-country teams, where her innate athletic ability was evident. She is also a member of RAMpage (Co-Editor of the school paper), and CAA (Media Rep for Central’s Athletic Association). In each of these positions Julia has consistently demonstrated that she takes pride in her work. She is always willing to volunteer her time to help with extra tasks needing completion and has proven to be a spirited member who makes meaningful contributes.
Julia is a very thoughtful and caring individual who is always willing to help others and thus very deserving of this award.
Dawson Lott — Student
Dawson is an incredibly likeable student: he goes out of his way to be friendly, ask questions and encourage his peers. He is very reliable and both conscientious and professional in all his efforts.
Dawson is highly involved in Student Council as the Minister of School Spirit - "spirit is him", and he is willing to be the first person modeling how fun it is to be part of creative activities.
Dawson is involved with Theatre Central and challenges himself in different theatre roles: this year as actor, director and assistant stage manager. He also participates in Central Choir, and excels at singing baritone bass.
Outside of school, Dawson continues pursuing his passion for the arts: he is taking piano, theory and singing lessons, jazz and tap dance lessons, and is part of a community choir. Somehow, he still finds time to usher at the Stratford Festival - he enjoys the opportunity to engage with the public and see many shows!
Dawson is a people person, and happily pursues any chance to connect to others. Dawson always approaches everything with 110% of his energy and heart!
Jamie Paul — Educational Assistant
Jamie is a valued staff member of the Learning Services department at SCSS. He began his career as an educational assistant at Hamlet Public School in 1998 before transferring to Stratford Central in 2009.
Every day Jamie shows his commitment to helping students become independent learners by first building their confidence and earning their trust. He then begins the challenging task of helping them think their way through the tough ‘stuff’ and encouraging them to follow through to the finish.
Jamie is able to make connections with students in a quiet and unassuming way. He has a talent of ‘coming in sideways’ to make initial contacts with students and then uses his patient and thoughtful approach to build relationships. When asked for assistance with any task, the answer is always yes.
Our team at SCSS is stronger because of the contributions of Jamie Paul.
Stratford Northwestern Secondary School
Daniel Bald — Student
When you think of Excellence in Education, you think of Daniel Bald at Stratford Northwestern Secondary School.
Daniel is an honours student in his fifth year at Northwestern. For the past five years Daniel has been heavily involved in rugby and wrestling. From rugby sevens in the fall, he would transition to wrestling over the winter, with a record of 30 wins and 5 losses, and finish off in the spring with rugby fifteens. With his love of rugby, Daniel has played club rugby with the Black Swans of Stratford and now is playing in London with the Marshall Men's A League, the highest division of men's rugby in Ontario. In the summer months Daniel plays inter city fastball with the North Waterloo League, playing second base for the Fullarton A's men's team.
Daniel served as Student Council President for 2013-2014. While in his senior year Daniel worked on his co-op term at G. B. Architects and was given an excellent rating by his employer.
Daniel has been a member of the cubs and scouts for ten years. He volunteers at the St.John's Lutheran Church and their many activities including annual dinners, fashion shows, go Freddie, and soup-and-sandwich lunches.
In his free time Daniel holds down three jobs, working mornings at Nuhn Industries, attending classes at Northwestern in the afternoon and working at Home Hardware after school and with Black Creek Flower Farms on the weekends. Daniel is a candidate for Skills Canada this spring, entering in the Floristry Competition.
Daniel has been accepted at Humber College in the fall for Architectural Technology and hopes to play college rugby.
Sam Knechtel — Student
Sam Knechtel is a most deserving candidate for the Excellence in Education Award. He is a grade eleven honour roll student at Stratford Northwestern.
When not working on his academics, Sam can be seen in the Stratford Northwestern Huskie uniform playing rugby, basketball and track and field - specializing in the javelin and the pole vault. Sam has been so successful in the pole vault that he has joined the London-Western Track & Field Club and trains year round at the University of Western Ontario facilities. Last summer at the Ontario Athletics Championships in Windsor, Sam won the gold medal in the pole vault with a jump of 3.55 metres, (11.5 feet). He is currently ranked 13th in Canada for his age group.
Sam has earned his grade six piano and enjoys playing the piano, reading, hunting and fly fishing. Active in the community, Sam holds down two jobs, employed as a banquet server at the Arden Park Hotel and a lifeguard for the Stratford Lions Pool. In his spare time he volunteers with the "Sunshine Foundation Dreams for Kids" and their suitcase party as well as the Shriner's Chicken BBQ.
During his lunch hours at Stratford Northwestern, Sam works with a student who is transitioning to a tech and design class and helping the student overcome his anxiety in the shop area. Together they go into the Tech and Design class and work on a design project.
Sam's future plans include attending university where he hopes to continue with his athletics.
Lauri Millar — Community Member
As part owner of Hair Logic, Lori has worked with our co-op department many times over the last few years. She has always been willing to take co-op students and often works with students that are a little harder to place. She always provides a friendly work environment and gives plenty of hands on experience. We have noticed how students always grow in confidence while working with Lori due to her patient and understanding nature.
Lori has often gone above and beyond the expectations of a co-op supervisor by meeting students outside of co-op hours. Even after a student has finished their placement with Lori, she still maintains contact with them and encourages them on their journey.
We are very grateful to Lori for her enthusiasm in the co-op program and we believe that she is a very deserving recipient of this award.
Rick Roy — Educational Assistant
Well-respected, trustworthy, responsible, flexible and fun. These are just a few of the adjectives that come to mind when thinking of Rick Roy.
In addition to working with the students on a daily basis, Rick also assists with the Wrestling Team . According to Coach Finnie, “Rick has been a great asset to the wrestling team. Rick supervises the weight room during split practices and conducts the wrestling practices in Coach Finnie's absence. When hosting tournaments and Coach Finnie was tied up with the draws, Coach Roy would coach from the corner, and support the wrestlers. Coach Roy is a great addition to the wrestling team.”
Rick is also a member of the Emergency Response Team for the Special Education Department, assisting at a moments notice. He is also on the Health and Safety Team, ensuring the well-being of all at Northwestern. Rick has recently taken the Basic Instructor Certification Course in Construction Technology.
Rick is someone who always treats everyone with whom he works with dignity, and respects the confidentiality of his position. He is easy to get along with and always has a positive attitude.
Rick has as a gift when it comes to working with the most high needs of students. He has the talent of being able to assist them to improve their quality of life.
Outside of school, Rick is a member of the pit crew for his brothers in the Lucas Oil Sportsman Series. He is an excellent problem solver and a jack of all trades. He is able to improvise to make something work when broken and uses the same skills in the school setting as well.
Rick is a caring, patient and enthusiastic member of staff and is well deserving of this award.