2015

THAMES VALLEY DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

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Program

Welcome Karen Edgar, Chair

Award of Distinction

Musical InterludeIntroduction - Trustee Jake Skinner

Sir Federick Banting Secondary School Senior Jazz BandAppreciation - Trustee Joyce Bennett

GreetingsLaura Elliott, Director of Education

Presentations to Award of Distinction NomineesRuth Tisdale, Chair

Laura Elliott, Director of Education

Presentations to Award of Distinction RecipientsRuth Tisdale, Chair

Laura Elliott, Director of Education

Response on Behalf of Nominees and RecipientsDiana Goodwin, Learning Supervisor

Closing RemarksRuth Tisdale, Chair

Please join us for a reception

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Justin BongersTeacher – Northridge Public School

“He has a zest for life and if I could sum up Justin in one word it would be GENEROUS!” - A colleagueJustin works very hard to create a classroom where students are treated as individuals, encouraged to be leaders, and taught to be respectful citizens. While he tailors his teaching to meet individual student needs, his classroom is inclusive and built on a community premise. Students are made to feel welcome and accepted. He takes that community focus beyond the classroom by helping students support organizations such as the London Food Bank and London Humane Society through

various fundraising efforts. His leadership has empowered his students to identify needs in the community and understand the power they have to create change together. Justin is noted for his innovative use of technology in his teaching. He also models great character in his professional and personal life. As a mentor for new teachers through the Board’s New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP), he helps new teachers navigate the challenges in their first years in the profession. As a multi-sport coach, he teaches young people how to play and grow as a team, win or lose. His “ability to reach out and make a difference in the lives of young people is incredible.”

Elaine BranderESL Department Head – H.B. Beal Secondary School

“She is a self-effacing dynamo whose impact on her school and the wider system has been extraor-dinary.” - A colleagueAs an English as a Second Language (ESL) department head, Elaine works with many newcomers to Canada, including students and their families. It’s a role she takes very seriously. Part educator, part ambassador, she is “often seen at the school late at night, on the weekends, and in the summer to make sure each student has the support they need to ensure academic success.” In some cases that means providing counselling, helping students find medical care or simply getting a student to

the right bus at the end of the day. Elaine’s dedication has helped thousands of newcomers integrate into Canadian culture, learn English and build successful lives in a new country. Throughout her career, she has been an innovator in ESL teaching and programming for English Language Learners (ELL). She has also made a lasting impression on other teachers and staff members at Beal and beyond. As one colleague said, “She has a beautiful way of raising positive feelings in others and assuring us all that we are capable, appreciated and loved.” She has built a long and admirable legacy of service. She is a “humble humanitarian” who works selflessly on behalf of newcomer youth and their families.

Sherry BruceTeacher – Algonquin Public School

“Mrs. Bruce treats her students like we are part of her family.” - A studentSherry’s nomination was initially brought forward by her students. She has a respectful approach to teaching, and she is willing to use student interests – anything from square dancing to building dream catchers – to engage them in their learning. Students love that she genuinely cares about their happiness. Often they will find little gifts on their desk, or a note or some other token of kindness from Sherry if they need support. She constantly encourages them to be their best, to value themselves and to respect others. Her encouragement inspired one student to “try my hardest every day and, as

each day goes by, try to top my success – not someone else’s.” Through field trips and events, she teaches students to explore, to be involved and to be compassionate leaders. The Girls Group she implemented provides a safe place where girls can develop self-esteem and serve the community. As a wrestling, badminton, softball and volleyball coach, she has also taught students how to compete with integrity. Sherry’s positive influence is felt across the system through her work with new teachers and teacher candidates. She is simply “an outstanding teacher that teaches both from and with her heart.”

Recipients

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Patricia CampbellOffice Manager – Parkside Collegiate Institute

“Each person should take a page from Pat Campbell’s book. If we all did, the world would be a bet-ter place for it.” - A colleaguePat does many, many things that make a big difference at Parkside. While she is an exceptional office manager, her impact goes far beyond the responsibilities of her position. She genuinely cares about students and is especially noted for helping students who need support. Every year at Christmas, she quietly makes sure Parkside families in need get gifts. She has made it a priority to see that poverty is not a barrier to learning, whether that means running the school breakfast program, organizing

clothing drives or making sure everyone has access to learning opportunities. Pat is also a leader with a gift for empowering others to take on leadership roles. She organizes Commencement, supports Students’ Council and brings a wealth of IT knowledge to the school. She also works directly with Department Heads to help them lead as effectively as possible. As important as those contributions are, Pat is perhaps most appreciated as “the first to offer a shoulder to cry on, a pat on the back and a warm hug for those who are upset.” Her compassion “sets a tone of openness and warmth in the Parkside office.”

Bruce ClarkeASD Resource Teacher – Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School

“I wouldn’t be the person I am if I didn’t have Bruce as such a strong role model and positive influence in my life.” - A former studentBruce has spent 28 years of his 31-year career at Banting. For about five years of that time he has worked with students in the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) program. Those students can sometimes pose a challenge, but Bruce doesn’t see it that way. He views them in terms of potential and works with each of them to help them succeed academically and socially. Bruce is an advocate

for his students. He often gives up his evenings or weekends so they can attend extracurricular activities and many of his senior students have found work placements or part-time jobs with his help. He also introduced a Peer Mentor Program to help ASD program students connect with other students in each classroom. Bruce also mentors other teachers to help them support and accommodate ASD program students in their classes. His leadership has helped create understanding at the school, and built a welcoming environment for his students. As a football and soccer coach, Bruce has taken the same attitude to the field, where he teaches young people to play fair, play hard and take care of each other. On and off the field, he “works tirelessly every day to bring about positive change.”

Paul CookPrincipal – Westmount Public School

“All who know Paul greatly respect his tireless dedication and relentless commitment to students and families.” - A colleaguePaul is a community builder. Under his guidance, Westmount has become a place where all voices are welcome and where the entire community – including students, parents and community partners – are included in the decision-making process. He created the unique Educational Support Team, which brings together staff members from different areas to collaboratively support needs

in the school. He has also encouraged participation from the Students’ Council as an advocate for students, and has taught its members the value of community service. He leads those students by example, serving as principal representative for the Westmount Family Centre and the Child Care Advisory Council. He “frequently gives of his own time to provide guidance to advocacy groups, meet with parents and generally promote learning in all its forms.” Paul is an excellent mentor not just for the teachers in his school, but for new teachers as an active faculty member at Western University’s Althouse College. He is also an innovator who is willing to try new things. As one colleague put it: “Paul doesn’t want to think outside the box. He wants to ‘throw the box away’.” Everything he does is about helping students be their best and building a thriving school community.

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Brenda CoombsEducational Assistant – East London Alternative School

“Brenda really is a one in a million type of person – a woman small of stature but big of heart.” - A colleagueAs an Educational Assistant in an Alternative School setting, Brenda works with teenagers who face a wide variety of challenges in the traditional school system. She has gift for helping at-risk young people overcome those challenges and become engaged in their education, which can be a springboard to a successful adult life. Brenda recognizes that in many cases her students just need someone to care for and encourage them. Throughout her career, she has developed amazing

insight and intuition, both of which help her meet individual student needs in a life-changing way. She has also made a point of building community connections, bringing in local experts to speak to students about issues like drug abuse and anxiety. Her efforts to engage community partners have also supported the Breakfast For Learning program, which provides food for students who are hungry. Brenda sets high standards for her students but knows when to give them space. She creates a welcoming and safe classroom environment where students are challenged to improve and supported every step of the way. When they move on from school her students “always remember Brenda and how much she cared.”

Peggy DunhamESL/ELD Teacher – Sir John A. Macdonald Public School

“She empowered my children to become successful and accomplish things that seemed impossible.” - A parent Peggy has enjoyed a long, successful and diverse teaching career at several Thames Valley schools. Over time, her teaching has come to focus on English as a Second Language programming as well as programs that support newcomers to Canada. In fact, before there were ever Settlement Workers in Schools, Peggy was helping newcomers find the community resources they needed to integrate

into their new country. She understands that many of her students have had traumatic experiences in different countries before they arrive in Canada. She is very conscious of their comfort and works hard to make sure they find a safe, welcoming environment at school. She also makes an effort to engage the families of students as part of their transition to a new home. Peggy is recognized as an innovator with classroom technology and an early adopter of new teaching practices. She is a “forward thinker” who constantly strives to improve her work, expand her knowledge, and serve students better. She has also written curriculum and provided leadership to wider initiatives including the LEARN program that helps other teachers working with ESL students and newcomers. Her work has made a vital difference for thousands of students and families.

Betty GirouxSpecial Education Department Head – Sir Frederick Banting Secondary School

“They say there are angels among us. Betty is our angel at Banting.” - A colleagueBetty has been the head of Special Education at Banting for the past 23 years. In that time, she has built “a legacy of innovation in gentle teaching, tireless advocacy for the voiceless, a culture of parent-school collaboration and bridges between organizations.” She has been a true champion for special needs children and their families, embracing new ideas and scholarship around educating those students and putting those ideas into practice. She has also called upon expertise in physiotherapy, speech therapy, communication technology and other specialized services to help her students and

provide advice for teachers. She has helped revolutionize the way special needs students are integrated and supported in the school system. Betty has “a keen eye for finding the strengths in the children with whom she works.” She also builds very strong relationships with their parents, and advocates for a team approach to helping students succeed. As part of that approach, she has engaged community partners including Fanshawe College, Western University, the Special Olympics and many others to help provide access to programs and opportunities for students. She is recognized as a superb role model who “believes in mentoring through guiding, teaching and helping others with encouragement and reassurance.”

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Diana GoodwinLearning Supervisor – Learning Support Services

“Diana is passionate, committed, energetic, innovative and inspiring. It has been such an honour working with her.” - A community partnerThroughout her career as a teacher, principal, and more recently Learning Supervisor, Diana has established a reputation for integrity, innovation and excellence in education. She has also developed a wealth of knowledge about effective teaching and learning, and has used that knowledge to give exemplary leadership to many programs and initiatives. Diana is an exceptional and inspirational motivator. As a Learning Supervisor, she works with teachers, challenging them to approach teaching

“in a way that always promotes student voice and choice.” Her emphasis on excellence has helped many teachers improve their teaching, and brought about exciting change in various areas of the Thames Valley system. She is particularly recognized for her contributions to Full Day Kindergarten, Early Years programming, literacy and Special Education, among many areas of educational focus. She has also been instrumental in connecting with community partners to support student learning and provide resources for students in need. Her work has positively affected thousands of students and will continue to do so through programs she shaped and teachers she has mentored. She has “left an indelible impression with the staff and students she has connected with during her career in education.”

Gideon GrayStudent – Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School

“Gideon willingly embraces challenge, and has the rare capacity to inspire and encourage those around him.” - A teacherGideon has been an exceptional leader throughout his time at Laurier. He served on the Students’ Council in Grades 10 and 11 and took on the demanding position of Prime Minister in his Grade 12 year. Whether leading the school’s audio/visual club, running an assembly or simply wearing the school mascot’s costume, he has helped “transform the school climate positively with his approach to school spirit.” Gideon knows that one of the pillars of leadership is to empower others to lead, as well.

He has done that remarkably well at Laurier, enlisting students to help with various initiatives and setting a shining example for others to follow. As a contributing member of the Healthy Schools and Safe Schools committees, he has provided a voice for students and done much to create a healthy school environment. He has made similar contributions to initiatives like the Upstander and The Pledge to end bullying campaigns that draw attention to harassment and bullying. He is also a Peer Helper who works with younger students in classrooms – helping them academically and modelling commitment, compassion and service. Inside and outside the school, he is “a charismatic leader and an outstanding role model.”

Kim Huisman, Deborah Kraft, Cathie Noyes, Cyndi Shill, Carolyn WickensVolunteers – Evelyn Harrison Public School

“Because of these dedicated, caring moms, our students witness inclusion, hard work, perseverance and kindness in action every day that they come to school.” - A teacherCollectively, Evelyn Harrison’s core parent volunteer group has done an enormous amount for the school community over the past 12 years. They are at the school almost every day, helping with tutoring, working in classrooms, leading school committees, supporting assemblies and events, performing noon hour supervision, chauffeuring and serving wherever they are needed. They have

also taken charge of important fundraising initiatives to put SmartBoards in every classroom, build the school’s early years play structure and purchase important learning resources. Along the way, they have provided a wonderful example of service. One teacher described them as “the moms of the school and it’s like each of them has over 300 children to care for.” Another wrote that the school “can always count on these hard-working individuals to pitch in and make our students feel special and included.” As with most dedicated school volunteers, none of the group’s members look for the spotlight. They are happy to work behind the scenes and their reward is the joy of service. Even so, the school community is delighted to recognize their hard work and thank them for the “tremendous difference” they have made at Evelyn Harrison.

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Joy JohnsonSchool Secretary – Elgin Court Public School

“We are truly so fortunate to have someone so genuine, conscientious and kind as part of our family.” - ColleaguesJoy is a secretary and much more at Elgin Court. She supervises the school greeter team, serves as an emergency responder, sits on the graduation committee and staff social committee and is a regular contributor to school assemblies and events. In all of those roles, she has “played a key role in transforming the school culture into a positive and team-oriented culture.” As her name suggests, Joy is a positive person who does indeed bring joy to those around her – especially in difficult times.

Students love that she genuinely cares about them. Parents love that they can come to her with questions about the school, and that she will provide honest and useful advice. School staff members love that she knows so much about their school and is a superb and attentive organizer. Joy’s work involves a lot of problem-solving, often in tricky circumstances. That might mean organizing buses for a field trip or helping a student who is injured or sick. She handles these challenges with poise and efficiency, never forgetting to provide comfort and leadership when necessary. One letter supporting her nomination described her succinctly as “truly the heart of Elgin Court.”

Sharon LoucksTeacher – Wiingashk Alternative Education

“Her generosity is limitless.” - A former studentSharon has an “outstanding ability to engage at-risk students.” She shows great commitment to her students, developing effective individual education plans and taking a personal interest in their lives. Her interest is apparent in the way she works with parents, helps her students find community supports, arranges work placements, holds them accountable and otherwise supports their growth as learners and people. In her current role, she works with First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth. She approaches this work with great cultural sensitivity and curiosity, participating in many FNMI cultural

events to broaden her understanding and help make connections to First Nations culture in her curriculum. Sharon “works tirelessly to support and engage the youth in her care.” Many of those young people have had trouble in school but she recognizes the power that education has to change lives. Sharon has made it her mission to help her students succeed in school as a springboard to success after school. She teaches students that they are capable and that they can be successful if they are willing to believe in themselves and try. Over the years, she has helped hundreds of students “realize and reach” potential they didn’t believe they had.

Chantal McLaughlin and Natalie TrimbleVolunteer Program Coordinators – Supplies for Students

“These two amazing women have truly made a difference in the lives of our students and in our com-munity. Their heartfelt compassion is contagious.” - A program partnerAs volunteers with the Thames Valley Education Foundation’s Supplies for Students program, Chantal and Natalie make sure students have the school supplies they need to learn effectively. Last year alone, they were instrumental in filling and distributing more than 3,800 backpacks full of supplies to students. Their work makes a huge difference for students dealing with challenging circumstances, not only equipping them with school supplies, but giving them “a sense of value, belonging, self-worth

and confidence.” This can be a life-changing gift. Chantal and Natalie have attracted a group of more than 100 volunteers, plus local businesses and partners, to help with the cause. They have given countless hours of their time to build those bridges, collect supplies, stuff backpacks and do whatever else is necessary to make the program work. Their commitment sets a wonderful example for other volunteers, and especially for students who see the power of their service in action. They have also encouraged local businesses to get involved in supporting young people and school communities. Running the program can be tough and tiring but Chantal and Natalie approach each day with enthusiasm and grace. They are exceptional volunteers doing equally exceptional work for students.

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Jamie NeilsonVolunteer – Oakridge Secondary School

“Jamie has been and will continue to be a major role model in my career as a volleyball player and as a person.” - A studentJamie has helped make Oakridge a provincial volleyball powerhouse. He’s been an assistant coach or head coach with the school’s junior and senior boys’ volleyball teams for 21 years, leading them to multiple OFSAA gold and silver medals. He has taught his players winning lessons on the court and how to succeed off the court, as well. He leads by example, giving his time nearly every day and most weekends during volleyball season to train, support, and encourage others. His calm demeanor –

even in the most intense circumstances – teaches his players to be cool under pressure. His quest for perfection through hard work and discipline inspires them to be their best in all areas of life. He also teaches his players about teamwork in a powerful way. Through his teaching, they have learned to “compete successfully with tremendous attitude, sportsmanship and grace.” This approach to achieving goals transcends volleyball and becomes the foundation for a successful life. His players become leaders under his guidance and they develop the confidence that comes with improving and winning. He continues to be a wonderful role model for young men as they become adults and leaders.

Amanda NicholdsEducational Assistant – Rick Hansen Public School

“She is a bright light in the lives of many who need it.” - A colleagueAmanda has dedicated her professional life to helping the system’s most vulnerable students find their place and be successful in the classroom. She is a “gentle, compassionate, caring and supportive person” in the lives of her students working with their parents and the rest of the EA team to address their individual needs. Her work has produced exciting results. In one case, she worked intensively to help a non-verbal student learn introductory sign language and find a “voice” for the first time. She has also used technology to help other students improve their ability to communicate. Outside

the classroom, she has created unique opportunities for students to be involved in the school. Her baking and coffee cart program, for example, allows special needs students to be involved and to learn important literacy, numeracy and life skills by taking orders and dealing with customers. Amanda has a special ability to make her students feel safe. They trust her and they know that she genuinely cares about their happiness. She sends the same message to the rest of the school, serving on the Safe Schools Committee and the Social Committee, helping with the breakfast program and participating in other charity and fundraising initiatives.

Erin Rows and Craig SaariStudent Success Teacher and Learning Support Teacher – Strathroy District Collegiate Institute

“I have been so lucky to be able to work with them and witness so many incidents of exemplary teaching.” - A colleagueErin and Craig come as a package and their work together can be illustrated in the story of one young man. The boy had no parents and no friends when he enrolled at the school and was placed in a class for students with Autism Spectral Disorders. He was living with his uncle in a strange town and struggling to cope. Erin and Craig became his advocates as he went through a challenging transition to high school by supporting him in the classroom and helping him access dental care and using their

own money to help him get clothes, food and new glasses. When his home situation became volatile, he went to Erin and Craig, who worked with community agencies to find him a place to stay. While looking after his physical well-being, Erin and Craig also found ways to help him belong. They created opportunities for him to be involved, “feel valued as a member of the school” and meet people. With Erin and Craig beside him, the student has managed to rise above an unfortunate and unfair childhood and graduate from high school. They have done the same for many other students, providing hope for a brighter future.

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Daniela VukobraticTeacher – Algonquin Public School

“When you walk into the room where she teaches you can feel this vibe of love and kindness. I feel so honoured to be able to teach with her and learn from her.” - A colleagueDaniela’s classroom is described as a “joyful place to come and learn.” She inspires that joy with her love of teaching, and her sincere desire to help her students succeed. Daniela has a global view. She often builds her lessons around explorations of other countries and cultures, encouraging her students to be curious about the world and to embrace diversity. She is also a dedicated community servant who is a volunteer leader for organizations including Sakura House and the Southgate Centre

for Seniors. At school she creates opportunities for students to serve others too, whether it’s through the nutrition program she runs, the Girls’ Club she created, or fundraising drives that support student learning. Daniela is especially good at working with students who have special needs. She “shows each student that no barrier is insurmountable and that, above all, helping others is truly the best way to live.” She models that belief daily, bringing an infectious love of learning and commitment to service into her school. She has taught students that they can reach their goals, aim high and earn great satisfaction from putting others first. Her “creativity, humour, passion and confidence” make her an inspiration.

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Melanie ArthurNutrition For Learning Program Coordinator – Emily Stowe Public School

Through Melanie’s leadership, Emily Stowe’s Nutrition For Learning program provides healthy snacks to more than 500 children every day. She organizes a group of parents to run the program and they collectively set a wonderful example of service for students. Melanie also volunteers to support school trips, sports teams and events. Despite all these contributions, she doesn’t seek the spotlight. She “sees the best in everyone and inspires” the entire school community.

Debbie BeccareaSchool Secretary – John Dearness Public School

Debbie is retiring after 20 years at John Dearness. Over the years, she has been an exemplary school secretary, a championship-winning volleyball coach and an integral part of school events and activities. She is also a trusted advisor and expert on the school’s people and history. As one nominator wrote, she is “a true treasure and one that any school would be very lucky to have.” Debbie will be missed by a school community that wishes her a fond farewell after so many years of service.

Cathy BropheyVice Principal – Knollwood Park Public School

Cathy is a “person who builds and sustains positive connection” at Knollwood Park. She sets high standards for herself and the school as she engages parents in helping students be their best. Her efforts to build bridges between school and home and have helped parents become more involved, strengthening the school community and contributing to student success. She approaches her work with “diligence and grace,” teaching others to aim high and achieve great things.

Pat Charrette, Michele Frappier, Jennifer Fulmer, Gwen Gowan, Judy Mott, Donna Mylrea, Carrie O’Reilly and Sonja WhitchurchEducational Assistants – Southwold Public School

Southwold’s EA “dream team” is committed to helping the school’s most vulnerable students get the best from their school experience. They are a compassionate, skilled, hard-working group of professionals who make a huge difference for their students and families. They model patience and service, creating an environment of acceptance in the school and teaching young people to understand differences. Sadly, Judy Mott recently passed away. Thames Valley’s thoughts are with her family, friends and students at this difficult time.

Cynthia DaweTeacher – Central Public School

Cindie is “an absolute inspiration.” She is the sort of teacher that former students remember as one who made a difference in their lives. As a coach of many sports teams, leader of various clubs and organizer of events, she has taught young people how to set goals, work hard, be courageous and achieve success. She has also been a compassionate mentor and friend for students and colleagues. She is a “wonderfully strong role model.”

David EnnisPrincipal – Lorne Avenue Public School

David sees the best in people, which is one reason why he is such a good principal. He believes that people – students and staff – have potential and he takes steps to help them realize it. Those steps include building clubs where students can be involved, make friends and become leaders; creating a school environment that values safety and expression; and encouraging the staff to try new things. Even after almost 40 years in education, he remains “interested and energized” as a school principal.

Nominees

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Patti FinlayTeacher – Davenport Public School

Patti’s students nominated her for being “hard working, loving and passionate about what she does.” She has taught her students to be risk takers, to respect each other and to try their best in all that they do. Her encouragement and support has helped many of them “go after what they want, keep trying and never, ever give up.” She is an inspirational teacher whose lessons about life and character are as powerful as her lessons about curriculum. “Gotcha,” Ms. Finlay!

Mike FlynnTeacher – Arthur Voaden Secondary School

Arthur Voaden’s students and staff members enjoy some terrific lunches, courtesy of Chef Flynn and his students. The Culinary Arts teacher has a passion for food and service that has inspired many students to indulge their own passion, improve their skills and find success in the culinary world. Mike is also Assistant Head of the Technology Department and an active community servant. His example “instills a real sense of community and tradition and civic responsibility in his students.”

Randy GordonCustodian – Blossom Park Adult Education Centre

Randy is a cheerful, generous and dedicated presence in the school. Visitors to Blossom Park will find it to be a very clean and safe place where students and the staff feel welcome. Randy is a big part of that atmosphere. He “loves his job, does it well and constantly goes above and beyond, especially if it involves helping a staff member or student.” His selfless approach and genuine desire to serve others creates a warm atmosphere that makes Blossom Park “an exceptional place” to work and learn.

Mark JanesTeacher – Lord Dorchester Secondary School

Mark is an innovative teacher whose love of technology is creating exciting learning opportunities at Lord Dorchester, including the very successful First Robotics Team. Through the club students are exploring and experimenting with metal fabrication, electrical engineering and computer programming. They are learning to use technology in creative ways while also becoming leaders and team players. Mark has given them the gift of his “infectious” passion, which will stay with them beyond high school.

Mario MartinezCustodian – South Dorchester Public School

Mario is the “cornerstone” of South Dorchester Public School. He works very hard to keep the building safe and clean – and he does just as much to elevate the school’s atmosphere. He genuinely cares about people and his “big smile” inspires everyone. He is quick to help whenever he is asked and goes far beyond expectations in almost everything he does. In all aspects of his work with staff, students and visitors, he is a “leader and a great example of positive attitude” at the school.

Kathy PowTeacher – Lord Nelson Public School

Students remember Kathy long after they have left her classroom. She has a talent for making learning fun, empowering students to set goals and then creating lessons that reach them as individuals. She has also taken unique steps to involve parents in their children’s education and supported new teachers as a mentor. Kathy has “a true teacher’s heart.” Through her teaching, students and teachers alike are “forever changed for the better.”

Holly PowellTeacher – Laurie Hawkins Public School

Holly is described as a “technology guru” who is doing exciting things with software in the classroom. She often gives her own time to help other teachers learn to use various programs and applications and conducts workshops on technology at the Board level. As a Learning Support Teacher, Holly has also “guided many people to overcome personal and educational barriers.” She approaches all of her work with a “sunny disposition and passion for making a difference.”

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Steve RevingtonTeacher – Emily Carr Public School

Entering Steve’s classroom can be like entering a time warp. You might find a Roman marketplace or a Medieval village, depending on the day’s lesson. He specializes in authentic learning experiences that make learning fun for students. They become part of the setting, where they play roles and learn together. A caring and compassionate person, Steve wrote and recorded a song for a student raising money for cancer research. He is a “teacher you remember throughout your life.”

Joanne RobinsonTeacher Librarian – Maple Lane Public School

World traveller Joanne brings a wealth of life experience to the classroom. She embraces technology, runs the school website and is the driving force behind programs that build a love of reading in Maple Lane students. She is also a “champion for all students, particularly those in need.” She is a respected mentor for her colleagues and model for other teachers to follow. As she prepares for retirement, her “work ethic and commitment to Maple Lane will be greatly missed.”

Sara RoppVolunteer – Tavistock Public School

Sarah has given a tremendous amount of her time to supporting Tavistock Public School as a school council member and Nutrition Program organizer. Three days every week, she is in charge of making sure students have a healthy snack to eat. Often she prepares them herself; in fact, she baked 300 personalized cookies for last year’s Christmas celebration. She does all of this with enthusiasm and willingness – one reason why “students smile when she enters the school.”

Joanna SaucierVolunteer – Laurie Hawkins Public School

Joanna is a “Jill of all trades” at Laurie Hawkins. She is a school council member, lunch monitor and a snack program co-ordinator, she provides a healthy snack to more than 600 students four days per week. Joanna is always willing to help organize, promote or lend a helping hand to school events. She is often found “with a cluster of students around her clamouring for her attention.” Her commitment to the school has made her a vital part of the Laurie Hawkins community.

Julia SchmalzPrincipal – Knollwood Park Public School

Julia has helped turn Knollwood Park into “a community hub with a channelled focus on academic achievement.” Her busy school is a warm place where people are welcome, students are encouraged to try hard and staff members are empowered to be their best. She has been a strong supporter of the school’s Autism Spectrum Disorders program, creating a school that values understanding and integration, supported by a belief that success is possible for every student.

Kim SchramVolunteer – Roch Carrier French Immersion Public School

Kim organizes and manages Roch Carrier’s thriving snack program, sharing the gift of nutrition with students at the school. That means shopping, transporting food, building relationships with food vendors, planning menus and preparing snacks. She puts an enormous amount of effort into the program, serving as an “extraordinary role model” for students. Kim also serves on parent council and gives her time to many school events and initiatives. As one student said, “She does it all for us!”

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Majida ShahattoSettlement Worker in Schools (SWIS) Worker – Eagle Heights Public School

Majida has the important job of helping new Canadians settle in their school and community. She is very good at reassuring those families and works tirelessly to help find community support, make connections, overcome cultural barriers and become comfortable in their new home. Majida brings joy and generosity to her work. Her warmth and knowledge have given many families “the peace of mind to carry on and feel happy and satisfied” with their decision to move to Canada.

Jennifer StillmanMath Department Head – London Central Secondary School

Jennifer is a “kind, caring, memorable teacher who makes a difference in the lives of her students and colleagues.” She loves math and has a gift for teaching it, whether in the classroom or the “math help room” she created to help struggling students. As a teacher, cross country and track coach, mentor and friend she ignites “passion for not only mathematics – but also for education and personal growth.” She has a passionate and powerful commitment to helping students realize their potential.

Alicia ThorntonTeacher – Locke’s Public School

Alicia involves students in their own education, giving them choices and making learning relevant to their interests. A classroom innovator she spurs her students to be creative and also invites community and family members to share their expertise in class or participate in events. As a kindergarten teacher, Alicia has a profound influence on how her students begin their school career. Fortunately for her students, “she loves what she does and her love of learning is absorbed by everyone around her.”

Roger ThorntonTeacher – Bonaventure Meadows Public School

Roger’s teaching career has spanned 29 years. In that time, technology has changed dramatically and he has changed and grown with it. He has also been a technology guide for students and colleagues throughout his career, maintaining computer labs and managing devices like SmartBoards and iPads. He also gives students a chance to shine by coordinating the Bonaventure Idol competition. As he gets set to retire, he can be proud to know that “the impact he has made on his students is tremendous.”

Monica ZachariasESL Instructor – Wheable Adult Learning Centre

Monica has the important job of teaching English language and Canadian culture to adult students. She has an enormous influence on those students as they develop the language skills and knowledge they need to communicate, get jobs and settle in the community. She is known for her warmth, flexibilit, and great sense of humour as well as “her real compassion for the students, staff and society as a whole.” Monica is a great advocate for diversity and a wonderful mentor who is simply “a joy to work with.”

Kathy ZborowskiLearning Support Teacher – Caradoc North Public School

Kathy is a “champion of students with special needs.” She has particularly embraced technology to help students who struggle academically and is a leader in using devices and software in the classroom. Kathy makes time for each student and family. Throughout her career, she has “opened possibilities for students with special needs, and provided direction for families who didn’t know which way to turn.” With her help, those students have become more confident, more successful learners.

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Thames Valley District School Board1250 Dundas Street,

London, ON N5W 5P2Tel: (519) 452-2000

www.tvdsb.on.ca