Board Awards – 2025

Board Awards 2025

Rainbow District School Board honoured its dedicated employees and community partners with Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Co-Curricular Program, Community Partnership Awards, the Go Green Globe Awards, Awards for Excellence, the Barbara Konarek Memorial Award and the William N. Roman Teacher of the Year Award. Individuals with 25 years of service were also recognized.

APPLE AWARD

The Apple Award is presented to an employee who has been recognized on a national level, bringing pride and praise to Rainbow Schools.

Laurie Dunn
Teacher
N’Swakamok Alternative School

Laurie Dunn earned a prestigious Indspire Award for her work as an educator at the N’Swakamok Alternative School. An extraordinary leader, Laurie garnered the Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Educator Award in the Partner in Indigenous Education category. A non-Indigenous teacher of Indigenous learners, Laurie respects her students’ identity and culture, encourages them to believe in themselves, and inspires them to achieve their goals.

Committed to Truth and Reconciliation, Laurie balances respect for Indigenous teachings with care for Indigenous learners. She organizes activities and field trips that are land and culture based to ensure her students not only remain connected to their land but further develop their understanding of and connection to our territory. She also remains in contact with students after they graduate, helps with their post-secondary courses and encourages them on a positive path. Laurie Dunn models the values we instill in our students each and every day. Congratulations!

AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM

Fiona Ferguson
Volunteer
Princess Anne Public School

Since 2017, retired librarian Fiona Ferguson has led a chess club at Princess Anne Public School. Originally open to Grades 4 to 8, the club quickly expanded to include Grades 1 to 3, with older students modelling the game for younger students. Students learned to analyze situations, predict outcomes, and make strategic decisions, enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving and social skills. Recognizing the value of chess, Fiona Ferguson looked to engage even more students. With support, she organized Rainbow’s first Elementary Chess Tournament in 2018 with nine schools participating. This motivated other schools to start chess clubs. This year, the Elementary Chess Tournament grew to 19 schools with 338 participants from Grades 1 to 8. Thanks to Fiona’s vision, students have developed a love of chess, a game that improves self-regulation, patience, logic, creativity, memory and self-confidence. Chess clubs provide opportunities for positive interaction, transcending language barriers while promoting language acquisition. Congratulations!

Stacey Foy
Teacher
Walden Public School

What sets Stacey Foy apart are her exceptional teaching skills and the profound impact she’s had at Walden Public School. Specializing in music, choir, chimes and ukulele, Stacey works tirelessly to enhance music education for students and to foster a sense of passion that resonates deeply with every lesson and performance she leads. Under Stacey’s tutelage, students gain self-confidence and pride. She inspires them with kindness and patience, and instills a sense of community and belonging. Stacey takes on new challenges with grace, enthusiasm, and positivity, which is felt by everyone who has the privilege of working with her. From organizing events to leading productions and mentoring students and colleagues, her work ethic is unparalleled and her commitment to excellence shines through in each project she undertakes. Stacey Foy is diligent, dedicated and dependable, making her an ideal candidate for an Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Co-Curricular Program. Congratulations!

Paul Hatzis
Teacher
Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

Paul Hatzis is one of the most successful soccer coaches in the history of SDSSAA with 13 years at Lockerby Composite School and six years at Lo-Ellen Park. Committed to student development and school pride, he believes co-curricular activities help shape well-rounded individuals ready to lead in any field. Under Paul’s guidance, his junior and senior boys’ soccer teams have garnered many accolades, including an impressive 13 city championships and three silver city medals, 14 NOSSA championships, seven NOSSA silver medals, and seven AAA OFSAA appearances. He also hosted and convened the 2010 OFSAA Boys AAA Soccer Championship. In 2022, when the division was at risk of dissolving due to lower participation, Paul successfully revived junior boys soccer at Lo-Ellen Park. Through advocacy, collaboration and outreach, he helped bring the division back up to seven schools. Thank you, Paul, for helping students foster character, resilience, teamwork, discipline and pride. Congratulations!

Danika Hewlett
Teacher
Algonquin Road Public School

Danika Hewlett’s transformation of the arts and music education at Algonquin Road Public School has had a positive and powerful impact on students. Danika developed a dynamic music strategy that integrates seamlessly with the curriculum. She uses music-based storytelling and solfege to teach foundational concepts to primary students. Junior students learn to master recorders and ukuleles, while intermediate students explore band instruments and theory. Danika inspires students of all grades by cultivating a vibrant culture of creativity. Through music, students improve their cognitive flexibility, language development, and emotional regulation, contributing to their success in learning and life. During nutrition breaks, Danika leads three levels of choir, a drama club and concert band. Under her guidance, these groups have achieved recognition, including Diamond Awards at the Sudbury Music Festival, acknowledgements from the Northern Ontario Music Festival, Honorable Mentions from the Ontario Music Festival Association and several Stars of Excellence Awards. Congratulations!

Jenny Lavigne
Teacher
Lasalle Elementary School

Jenny Lavigne is the driving force behind Lasalle Elementary School’s flourishing co-curricular program. A devoted health and physical education teacher, she works tirelessly to help students develop skills, confidence and teamwork while fostering resilience, discipline and a love for physical health and wellness. Jenny creates an inclusive and supportive environment where students of all skill levels feel encouraged to participate, learn and grow. She spends nutrition breaks and time after school coaching and supervising sports including softball, cross-country running, floor hockey, triple ball and soccer. Jenny also leads track and field days, aids in planning and convening tournaments, and oversees the Terry Fox Run and Jump Rope for Heart initiatives. She even recruits community coaches for their expertise and guidance to ensure high quality programming and training opportunities for her student athletes. Jenny’s efforts strengthen school spirit, create lasting memories, and allow students to discover new passions and talents. Congratulations!

Jodie Pakkala
Principal
Northeastern Elementary School

As Chair of the Rainbow District Elementary Sports Council since 2018, Jodie Pakkala has consistently demonstrated exceptional organizational skills planning tournaments, recruiting convenors and scheduling games. A dynamic administrator, Jodie Pakkala values the connection between co-curricular activities and student success. Participation in sport builds collaboration, communication, camaraderie and confidence. It also promotes healthy, active living. Not only do students at Northeastern Elementary School have opportunities to play a variety of sports, the school opens its doors to host countless tournaments for elementary athletes from across the Board. The gym at Northeastern is alive with activity year-round, from basketball to volleyball championships. The Council also oversees outdoor opportunities for elementary students from cross-country to track and field. Coordinating system-wide events takes many hours and many hands. By going above and beyond, Jodie Pakkala and her team ensure students are engaged and energized to continue their pursuit of athletics in secondary school.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARDS

Claudio Clarini
Ten Rainbows Children’s Foundation

Westmount Avenue Public School and Jean Hanson Public School have a well-established partnership with Claudio Clarini and members of the Ten Rainbows Children’s Foundation. As Director of Fundraising, Claudio works with local businesses and organizations to fund resources that benefit students with significant needs. Financial contributions have allowed both schools to purchase classroom materials and gym equipment to enrich the student experience. Foundation members often visit both schools to better understand the complexity of student needs. They also volunteer for school-wide events such as holiday feasts with families. Claudio’s dedication extends beyond Rainbow Schools. A tremendous advocate for youth, he referees soccer in the summer, purchases specialized equipment for local children, and gives his time for special projects including the children’s room at Maison McCulloch Hospice. The Board is pleased to honour Claudio Clarini and the Ten Rainbows Children’s Foundation for their contribution to student success and well-being. Congratulations!

Dr. Gerard Courtin

A retired professor from Laurentian University, Dr. Gerard Courtin continues to share his passion for science education at Lockerby Composite School. Highly respected in his field, Dr. Courtin mentors students on their science fair projects, speaks about botany forensics and climate change, leads field trips in nature, hosts experiments on STEP Integration Days, and supports the school’s environmental education initiatives. Students research peat bog carbon sequestration, sample plant communities, develop advanced laboratory techniques, study vegetation and animal tracks, gain insight into pollen and plants in crime scene analysis, learn about winter ecology, and engage in the regreening of school grounds. A caring adult, Dr. Courtin values the well-being of all students as they explore, question and grow in their scientific discoveries. A long-time champion of the Science Technology Education Program, Dr. Courtin continues to inspire generations of students to find solutions to complex problems, making the world a better place.

Ken Desjardins
Valley View Public School

The kitchen at Valley View Public School is named after Ken and Sandra Desjardins in recognition of their invaluable support of the entire school community. As the owner and manager of Metro Val Est in Val Caron, Ken demonstrates an unwavering generosity and kindness by providing sponsorships and donations for a variety of school-based initiatives. Regardless of the economic times, he remains committed to paying it forward, ensuring students are given meaningful opportunities and experiences inside and outside of the classroom. Through the years, Ken has developed a deeply-rooted connection to the school, as both a parent and grandparent. He spreads joy with hot chocolate and cookies, provides food for hot lunches, and assists with Winter Carnivals. During the holidays, Ken opens his store for staff and students to carol and collect funds for the Edgar Burton Food Drive. Thank you, Ken, for helping students achieve their full potential. Congratulations!

Lopes Limited / Coniston Industrial Park Ltd.

Recognizing the need for skilled workers and high-quality tools and training to educate young people in the trades, Lopes Limited and Coniston Industrial Park Ltd. are investing in the future. This year, they were the lead sponsor of the Board’s Tech Skills Competition. Tools and supplies have also been provided to schools, enabling students to practice their skills. Their most significant investment will hit the road this fall. They have leased a new truck and purchased a new trailer for Rainbow Schools outfitting it with tools and supplying materials for Think Trades workshops. Board staff will travel to elementary schools across our district to bring opportunities to Grade 7 and 8 students on a larger scale. Students will learn tool safety, woodworking, metal tooling, simple electrical and plumbing tasks, graphic design and 3D printing. The hands-on experience will inspire students to pursue the trades in secondary school and pathways to exciting careers. Thank you.

GO GREEN GLOBE AWARDS

Charles C. McLean Public School

Charles C. McLean Public School achieved the highest honour in EcoSchools Canada – Platinum. Good On One Side bins are located throughout the school, lights and devices are turned off when not in use, and students bring litterless lunches to school. Grade 2 students enjoyed a tree planting project with Manitoulin Streams, and primary students prepared their very own land acknowledgements. A stone soup activity taught students about food waste, and clothing drives diverted textile waste from landfills. Students raised chinook salmon from egg to smolt in the school’s micro-hatchery, and are reducing their carbon footprint by tracking the number of times they use alternative transportation to get to school. Students even followed a polar bear as a means of supporting Canadian species at risk. The entire school took part in Bundle Up Day, World Water Day, Take Me Outside Day, and a community clean up for Earth Day. Congratulations C.C. McLean!

Lockerby Composite School

Staff and students from Lockerby Composite School continue to be environmental champions, garnering a Platinum certification with EcoSchools Canada for the fourth year in a row. Students apply their classroom knowledge to sample local wetlands, test pH and soil levels, research carbon sequestration, and embark on kombucha and SCOBY projects to support biodegradability. Throughout the year, students prepare eco messages for social media and morning announcements. Members of the Environmental Council participated in field trips focused on winter ecology and animal tracking, and engaged in a birding expedition. They repurposed old plastic bottles into bird feeders and supported Sudbury Gardening Week and the Sudbury Horticultural Society Plant Sale. For Earth Week, students participated in green activities including seed giveaways and exchanges, litterless lunches and vermicomposting. The school is also home to a classroom closet and shoe drive for diverting waste. Congratulations to Lockerby Composite School for your outstanding environmental stewardship.

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE

Kaytlin Cacciotti-Guba
Educational Assistant
Jean Hanson Public School

When Kaytlin Cacciotti-Guba finished her student placement at Jean Hanson Public School, she knew it would be her home away from home. Kaytlin leads with empathy and kindness, creating a nurturing environment for teaching and learning. She takes new staff under her wing and shares knowledge openly. Kaytlin also partners with colleagues and community agencies to implement progressive programming. From functional academics to life skills, students under her leadership make gains. She’s even taken sign language courses to better communicate with the students in her care. Kaitlyn serves as a Behaviour Management Systems Trainor for the Board. She also researched and designed the sensory rooms at Westmount Avenue Public School, and ensures they are well maintained. Kaytlin orders school spirit wear, is a member of the School Council, and is the first to volunteer for parent evenings. Dedicated, competent and respected, Kaytlin is most deserving of an Award for Excellence.

Tammy Candusso
Educational Assistant
Redwood Acres Public School

A true asset to the Redwood Acres Public School community, Tammy Candusso’s cheerful demeanor brings joy to everyone in her presence. She sets the bar high and her colleagues value her unwavering diligence and resolve. An Educational Assistant, Tammy works with Kindergarten students in the Intensive Support Program. Many of the students have complex needs, and her positive outlook helps them develop the foundational skills needed for success.  Whether she’s dancing down the halls, singing to them or flashing a quick smile, Tammy can always find ways to make students feel special. She creates a welcoming environment by adding colourful art throughout the classroom. She also tackles bussing issues with ease and is often at school early to ensure an optimistic start to the day. Humble and caring, Tammy always puts students first. For this and much more, Tammy is most deserving of an Award for Excellence. Congratulations!

Ashley Hanson
Educational Assistant
Jean Hanson Public School

When Ashley Hanson meets a new student, she sees a plethora of possibilities for a bright and meaningful future. A seasoned Educational Assistant, she consistently demonstrates empathy, enthusiasm and efficiency. A dynamic presence in her Intensive Support Program classroom, Ashley connects with students in a way that makes them feel seen, heard and validated. She also builds capacity within the school community through effective collaboration with students, colleagues and families. Ashley’s experience in Applied Behavioural Analysis is evident in her daily practice. She remains steadfast in helping students with special needs make gains, and has mastered communication with non-verbal students. She exudes compassion, consideration and calmness, and seeks to enhance her skill set as a lifelong learner. When support is required in another class, Ashley is always the first to respond. She also gives her time to support the school’s dodgeball team and facilitate family night after hours. Congratulations, Ashley!

Richard Panton
Custodian
Charles C. McLean Public School

Richard Panton has high standards and works hard. His attention to detail ensures that offices, classrooms, hallways and grounds remain safe, clean and welcoming. Compassionate and calm, he demonstrates patience and understanding when interacting with students. His comprehension of Applied Behaviour Analysis strategies creates a nurturing environment that enhances student well-being. A valued member of the school community, Richard listens to students read and supports school fundraisers. He helps with the school’s micro hatchery, checks on the fish eggs during holidays, and participates in the release of the fingerlings. He also assists with setup and tear down for events, including concerts and physical education activities, and ensures construction projects go off without a hitch. Richard’s caring demeanor and infectious smile have touched the hearts of many throughout his 10 years at Charles C. McLean Public School. Students even know his favourite cookie is Little Caesars chocolate chunk. Thank you, Richard.

Karen Patterson
Educational Assistant
Espanola High School

Karen Patterson has devoted 37 years to student success and well-being. An extraordinary Educational Assistant in the Intensive Support and Special Education programs at Espanola High School, Karen builds genuine, meaningful and respectful connections with students. She teaches them how to manage their behaviours and become actively engaged in their learning while fostering positive relationships with her peers. Under her guidance, students gain self-confidence and resilience, and experience academic and personal growth. Karen’s mentorship extends beyond students. She promotes an atmosphere of learning and professional development for colleagues by sharing best practices for managing student behaviour and implementing strategies that best support the diverse learning needs of students. Honest, fair and authentic, Karen is admired by students and families. Her passion for education, tireless work ethic, and ability to touch the hearts and minds of the students in her care make Karen Patterson worthy of an Award for Excellence. Congratulations!

Monique Philipow
Receptionist
Centre for Education

A valued member of the communications team, Monique Philipow is the first point of contact at the Centre for Education – on the phone and in person. She also oversees the distribution of mail. Poised. Polished. Professional. Positive. Productive. Polite. Pleasant. Patient. These words describe Monique in her frontline role at reception. Monique greets everyone with a genuine smile, anticipates needs, and goes above and beyond to provide support. She has become a “go to” person at the Centre for Education, a colleague that staff can reach out to and rely on regardless of the ask or the task. Her “at your service” attitude is evident in her daily interactions with staff, callers and visitors alike. Her organizational skills are as well developed as her interpersonal skills and she is always eager to assist with communications campaigns. She has set a high standard for customer service at the Centre for Education.

Deborah Rocca
Teacher
Lansdowne Public School

Deborah Rocca is a leader. As an intermediate teacher at Lansdowne Public School, Deborah builds positive relationships, sets high expectations, and creates a safe space for students to take risks. An active collaborator and mentor, Deborah’s colleagues admire her teaching practices and highly effective classroom management. She is also a positive role model for new and seasoned teachers, and builds capacity for future educators by opening up her classroom to students from Laurentian University and Nipissing University. As an intermediate demonstration teacher and math coach, Deborah shares her instructional approach and knowledge of best practices with educators across the Board. She also contributed to the development of system-wide resources for intermediate math instruction. Beyond the classroom, Deborah has coached Lansdowne’s intermediate girls’ volleyball team and oversaw the cross-country running and track and field programs. A true champion for children, Deborah Rocca is very deserving of an Award for Excellence. Congratulations!

Steve Sheehan
Teacher
Lively District Secondary School Intermediate Program

A talented educator with a wonderful sense of humour, Steve Sheehan is always eager to explore new strategies and best practices to meet the diverse needs of learners. Throughout his career, he has coupled exceptional classroom management skills with a natural ability to cultivate positive relationships with members of the school community. A champion for student success, Steve Sheehan nurtures the academic and personal growth of all students in the Grade 7 and 8 division at Lively District Secondary School. He collaborates effectively with colleagues, administrators, students, parents/guardians and partners to create a vibrant, engaging and inclusive learning environment. Steve Sheehan has also given generously of his time to coach school sports. Under Steve Sheehan’s leadership, students are active participants in their learning journey. With an enthusiastic team of cheerleaders by their side, students surpass curriculum expectations to achieve their personal best. They build confidence and thrive as individuals.

Brian Visneskie
Technical Services Supervisor
Centre for Education

For more than 17 years, Brian Visneskie has played a pivotal role in the design, development and operation of the Board’s computer infrastructure. A technical wizard, Brian speaks the language of VLANs, logs, endpoints, firewalls, backups and virtualization. With deep knowledge of networking and data centre technologies, Brian has led a variety of information services projects. As Technical Services Supervisor, he maintains all networks and data centre servers. When systems are down, every step towards recovery begins at Brian’s desk. His expertise and guidance allow members of the Information Services team to contribute to the restoration process, bringing applications back online quickly and safely. Brian exudes a quiet confidence and resilience that is valued and appreciated. Calm under pressure and generous with his time, his commitment to students, staff and families ensure they have access to the tools they need to teach, learn, work and communicate. Thank you, Brian. Congratulations!

Mary Wiecha
Senior Payroll Clerk
Centre for Education

Mary Wiecha has a contagious zest for life. In her 53-year career, nine of which have been with Rainbow District School Board, she has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for success. An essential member of the Finance Department, Mary goes above and beyond to ensure processing deadlines are met. She maintains a pleasant disposition when responding to staff inquiries, leaving them feeling heard, valued and appreciated. Mary greets everyone with a smile and takes the time to check in to see how they are doing. She is punctual, resilient, loyal and dependable. During highly demanding situations, she remains calm, focused and positive. For Mary, anything is possible with the right mindset. She has been a dedicated kickboxer for many years, becoming a role model for anyone striving to achieve their fitness goals. Mary is a light that shines bright. Thank you for your dedicated service, Mary. Congratulations!

BARBARA KONAREK MEMORIAL AWARD

Barbara Konarek supported students as a teacher and special education consultant.

Kari Bradley
Intensive Support Teacher
Westmount Avenue Public School

Kari Bradley is a tireless advocate for students with complex needs. She is purposeful and passionate about differentiated instruction and fosters inclusivity for all learners by providing them with a variety of learning opportunities based on their specific needs. Kari prepares and delivers focused daily instruction and collaborates with colleagues to help students develop core language skills. Authentic and caring, she helps students verbalize their emotions and brings out the best in them. Kari has an innate ability to make students feel comfortable in her presence. To students, her classroom always feels like home. Professionally, Kari seeks to continuously challenge herself by participating in development seminars to deepen her understanding of special education. Many of her graduates have garnered success through the Project SEARCH program, post-secondary studies and the world of work. The magnitude of her impact is truly immeasurable. Congratulations, Kari. Thank you for reaching minds and touching hearts.

WILLIAM N. ROMAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD

William N. Roman was a highly-respected, long-time Superintendent.

David Gallant
Teacher
Espanola High School

David Gallant has been a role model throughout his 30-year career. A Co-operative Education teacher and Guidance program leader, he helps students connect academic learning with real-world experience. As a highly respected coach in track and field and other sports, he instills values in students, like perseverance, resilience and teamwork, while encouraging personal growth. An active member of the Espanola community, David Gallant fosters a sense of belonging at the school by building positive relationships with families and engaging the community in school life. David Gallant also believes in continuous learning, seeking ways to enhance his own teaching while mentoring colleagues. Whether serving in leadership roles or as a committee member, he consistently contributes to the vision and vibrancy of Espanola High School. David Gallant’s lifelong dedication to student success, school spirit, and professional excellence makes him an ideal candidate for the William N. Roman Teacher of the Year Award.

Congratulations!