News Release


Honouring Outstanding Educators

McGuinty Government Celebrates Excellence in Education

April 14, 2008

Twenty-three educators and support staff will receive provincial education awards for their contributions to student learning and achievement.

The Premier's Awards for Teaching Excellence celebrate the outstanding individuals who work in Ontario's schools and school boards. The number and quality of this year's nominations demonstrated the high calibre of the province's educators and staff.

This year's recipients include a teacher who started a school café to help students learn about healthy eating and two custodians who do much more than keep the school clean and safe.

The 14 individuals and a team of nine will be recognized in six different categories at a special event held during Education Week April 28 to May 2:

  • Teacher of the Year
  • New Teacher of the Year
  • Excellent Support Staff
  • Excellence in Leadership
  • Lifetime Achievement
  • Team of the Year

Quotes

"Each of these outstanding individuals demonstrates the incredible impact one person can have on students, schools and communities. Their achievements are inspiring," said Education Minister Kathleen Wynne.

"This was an exceptional group of nominees. The recipients regularly exceed expectations and make a real difference in students' lives," said Akela Peoples, chair of the selection panel and President and CEO of Youth in Motion.

Quick Facts

  • There are more than 125,000 teachers, 7,000 principals and vice-principals and thousands of support staff in Ontario schools.
  • Anyone could nominate a staff member in a publicly funded school or school board in Ontario.
  • An independent selection panel reviewed the nominations to select award recipients. The panel was chaired by Akela Peoples, President and CEO of Youth in Motion, and included a parent, principal, student, support staff member and a teacher.

Learn More

Read about this year's award recipients.

Learn more about the Premier's Awards for Teaching Excellence.

See also: