Rainbow District School Board honours excellence at awards celebration

Rainbow District School Board paid tribute to dedicated employees and community partners on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 with the presentation of Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Co-Curricular Program, Community Partnership Awards, Awards for Excellence, the Go Green Globe Awards, the Barbara Konarek Memorial Award and the William N. Roman Teacher of the Year Award. Employees with 25 and 35 years of service were also recognized. To learn more, click here.

“With the presentation of these awards, we continue a rich tradition of honouring excellence in Rainbow Schools,” said Board Chair Doreen Dewar. “We are proud of our employees and community partners for their commitment. On behalf of the Board, I would like to congratulate all award recipients for their outstanding achievement.”

“The contributions of our individual award recipients vary, but they all have one thing in common,” said Director of Education Norm Blaseg. “They are dedicated employees and dynamic educational partners who go above and beyond the call of duty to reach minds and touch hearts in our schools and the communities that we serve.”

AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION
TO THE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM – 2015

Reg Bonin – Teacher – Lively District Secondary School
Reg Bonin is a champion for students inside and outside of the classroom. When Lively District Secondary School brought football back, Reg Bonin was chosen as head coach for the senior team in 2008. As the level of student interest skyrocketed, he developed a junior team. Under his leadership, both teams have had tremendous success, including gold and silver medalists in City Championships. Through his efforts, he has helped students cultivate a sense of belief in themselves, their abilities and their love for the game. Noted by opposing teams as one of the most influential, inspiring and motivational coaches in the city, Reg Bonin received the House of Kin – Coach of the Year Award in 2013 – 2014. Off the field, he is a Program Leader for Special Education who continuously strives to build relationships with students to help them be successful. Congratulations!

Cathy Norrie – Teacher – Cyril Varney Public School
Cathy Norrie has been a teacher with Rainbow District School Board for 16 years. She coaches numerous teams at Cyril Varney Public School, including cross-country running, cross-country skiing, volleyball, soccer and track and field. Students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of athletics and she often coaches two teams of the same sport to allow students to play. Tournament organizers comment on the respectful demeanor and sportsmanlike attitude of the players under her leadership. Cathy Norrie’s passion for fitness serves as a great example for health and wellness. She takes pride in working with students to build self-esteem and promotes positive character building skills. She gives generously of her time to support causes like the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Jump Rope for Heart. Over the last seven years, she has helped to raise over $20,000 for the cause. Congratulations!

Cori Pitre – Principal – S. Geiger Public School/Webbwood Public School
Cori Pitre leads quietly by example and her students always come first.  Currently a Principal at Webbwood and S. Geiger, Cori was nominated for this award by the Webbwood staff when she was Vice-Principal.  As a Vice-Principal, Cori organized the breakfast club and monthly community breakfasts, planned awards ceremonies, led literacy circles, led community art projects, and worked tirelessly to promote diversity.  Cori Pitre is committed to providing athletic opportunities to all students. She encouraged involvement in the SPARK program and organized lunch hour volleyball, along with many staff-student volleyball games.  The Webbwood junior and intermediate volleyball teams competed and were successful in a variety of tournaments and championships.  System-wide, she shares her commitment to diversity as an active voice on the Equity and Inclusive Education Committee. She is most deserving of an Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Co-Curricular Program.

Colin Ward – Teacher – Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School
Colin Ward’s passion for athletics inspires students at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School to strive for excellence. A teacher in Outdoor Education, Kinesiology and Personal Fitness, his dedication to student wellness extends beyond the classroom. He has coached many Lo-Ellen Park athletes to the top of the podium at local and provincial levels in cross-country running, Nordic skiing, and track and field. Over the years, he has contributed to a number of OFSAA events held locally.  He was head of the hurdle crew at the track and field meet in 2011, a start line official and member of the organizing committee for cross-country running in 2013, and parking/traffic manager for Nordic skiing in 2015. For his enthusiasm, patience and exemplary guidance, Colin Ward is highly regarded by students, staff, parents/guardians and colleagues alike. This makes him an ideal candidate for an Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Co-Curricular Program. Congratulations!

Stephen Beausoleil – Teacher – Lockerby Composite School
A teacher at Lockerby Composite School, Steve Beausoleil inspires students to excel in academics and athletics. Under his leadership, the Vikings boys’ volleyball teams have garnered gold in six local championships and eight Northern championships. The senior team won OFSAA bronze in 2011. Steve Beausoleil also coaches the girls’ volleyball teams and led them to capture gold during five local championships and two Northern championships. His love of volleyball extends from the school to the Greater Sudbury community. Thanks to his guidance, many students continue to play competitive sports following graduation. Steve Beausoleil also coaches badminton and tennis. He will often coach the junior and senior teams simultaneously, to allow students better opportunities to play. Selfless in nature, Steve Beausoleil puts his students’ needs above his own. The Board is pleased to recognize Steve Beausoleil for his contribution to the co-curricular program. Congratulations!

AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION
TO THE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM – 2016

Patrick Barnholden – Teacher – Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School
A member of the Equity and Inclusive Education Committee, Patrick Barnholden has been an outstanding role model and advocate in Rainbow Schools. A decade ago, he organized the first Gay-Straight Alliance in the Board at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School. He articulately and passionately communicated his vision, strategy and goals and then worked diligently to implement his ideas. He then partnered with the Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (formerly known as Jer’s Vision) to host Dare to Stand Out, which has grown into an annual board-wide event with 300 student participants. Under his leadership, Rainbow was also the first board in Ontario to host a Gay-Straight Alliance dance.  Patrick worked on the Board’s equity survey, gleaning data to determine next steps. He is currently leading a team of educators to develop a resource to support students who identify as transgender. Congratulations!

Sandie Martin – Teacher – MacLeod Public School
Sandie Martin has been a teacher and coach at MacLeod Public School since 2009. She shares her love of basketball and volleyball with junior and intermediate students.  She combines expertise, enthusiasm and energy for athletics to ensure that MacLeod athletes excel in all areas of their development.  Good is never good enough for Sandie Martin. She has an expectation that Mustangs exemplify sportsmanship and consistently play to the best of their own ability.  Sandie has mentored several new coaches in order to help build the co-curricular program at MacLeod.  She gives countless hours to organizing games and supporting tournaments at the school and Board level.  Sandie vigorously advocates for a healthy lifestyle for all students.  She also offers her guidance in selecting equipment for the ever-expanding co-curricular program.  The MacLeod community has benefited from Sandie’s love of sport and her willingness to share it. Congratulations!

Antoinette Purdon – Parent Volunteer – MacLeod Public School
Antoinette Purdon is an active parent volunteer. She is a member of the MacLeod School Council, attends field trips, promotes school functions, and participates in fundraisers. Antoinette has two daughters at MacLeod and has been supporting the Mustangs’ co-curricular program since her oldest, now in Grade 8, enrolled ten years ago.  Antoinette fundraises for teams by cooking hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches; organizes tournaments; helps sell school spirit wear; drives athletes where they need to go and supports track and field. A skilled athlete, Antoinette has coached many basketball teams to victory, at the junior and intermediate levels, and coaches junior girls’ basketball at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School. Antoinette has also mentored new teacher coaches, helping them to build the skills and knowledge necessary to grow the athletics program.  MacLeod is an amazing place for children because of parent volunteers like Antoinette Purdon. Thank you!

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD – 2015

YMCA John Island Camp
YMCA Sudbury and Lasalle Secondary School have a well-established partnership through which John Island Camp, now in its 62nd year, is being revitalized. Students who participate in the John Island Camp Rejuvenation Project receive a Grade 11 construction technology credit, a co-operative education credit, and two dual credits in the Carpentry Level 1 Apprenticeship Program at Cambrian College. YMCA Sudbury also sponsors students for practical hours for an apprenticeship. The John Island Camp Rejuvenation Project offers students the opportunity to participate in an authentic learning experience in a non-traditional setting. The innovative partnership has proven extremely beneficial for students, particularly those who learn best by doing. Through this program, students develop important life skills like co-operation, integrity and responsibility, skills that will help ensure their success in the workforce. The Board is pleased to honour the YMCA John Island Camp for its contribution to student success.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARDS – 2016

Mike Beaudry – Bus Driver – Leuschen Transportation
Mike Beaudry has been safely transporting students for Leuschen Transportation since 2007. He greets children by name, with a big smile and a friendly hello, and goes out of his way to cheer them up when they have had a tough day. When students are selling items for a school excursion or the less fortunate, he is always willing to support their goal. When they forget personal belongings on the bus, he calls home and delivers them in his own vehicle once he has completed his route. With his sincere care for children, Mike Beaudry is an exceptional role model. His demeanor impacts the day in a positive way, making children available for learning once they arrive at school. Many students who have had Mike as their bus driver think of him as being the one person who truly made a difference. Congratulations!

Manitoulin Streams Improvement Association
The Manitoulin Streams Improvement Association restores water quality and the fisheries resource on Manitoulin Island and the Great Lakes that surround it. They meet their mandate through collaborative partnerships and education with local stakeholders. This powerful combination has led to a number of educational excursions for students. Students visit a local fish hatchery and learn the value of stocking streams to revitalize the natural aquatic ecosystem and enhance recreational fishing. They also tour rivers and creeks to learn about restoration and research. Manitoulin Streams offers in-school adventures as well, from GIS mapping, learning about invasive species to micro hatcheries where students raise brook trout to be released. Through these dynamic and authentic learning experiences, students gain an appreciation of the important role they play in protecting and preserving our natural resources. Accepting the award on behalf of Manitoulin Streams is Chair Ted Williamson and Co-ordinator Seija Deschenes. Thank you for being a partner in education. Congratulations!

Jackie Balleny, Jennifer Rifou, Rachel Scanlon, Cindy Watson
Wobniar Construction – Sudbury Secondary School
They call themselves Wobniar Construction or Rainbow read backwards. Together, they form an incredible creative team supporting the Arts Education Program at Sudbury Secondary School. Jackie Balleny, Jennifer Rifou, Rachel Scanlon and Cindy Watson design and develop the beautiful sets for the school’s main stage productions, providing the perfect platform for the magic of theatre.  And Rachel Scanlon, Jennifer Rifou, Cindy Watson and Jackie Balleny do so with passion and perseverance, bringing a positive and generous “whatever you need” attitude to the tasks at hand. They have recruited many friends to join their efforts, forming a community of builders. Exceptional role models for students, they are a shining example of what can happen when people work together towards a common goal. Rainbow District School Board thanks, from left, Jackie Balleny, Cindy Watson, Rachel Scanlon and Jennifer Rifou for their immense contribution.

GO GREEN GLOBE AWARDS – 2015

Cyril Varney Public School
Cyril Varney Public School’s commitment to the environment has had a positive impact on the school, the community and the planet. Staff and students have worked diligently to achieve an Ontario EcoSchools certification. The school’s Eco Team promotes waste minimization, school ground re-greening, and energy conservation. To build enthusiasm, students receive eco-friendly reminders on a daily basis through morning announcements, newsletters and classroom projects. Eco Team members regularly perform waste audits and sift through wastebaskets to find recyclable items. There are Lights Out When You Can signs near all switches and Good On One Side bins for single-sided recyclable paper. Students also compete for the Golden Garbage Award, which is given to the class that produces the least amount of waste during litterless lunches, which are held twice a week. For their efforts in sustainability, Cyril Varney Public School has earned the Go Green Globe Award. Accepting the award on behalf of Cyril Varney Public School are, from left, Vice-Principal Janelle Bast, Designated Early Childhood Educator Amanda Deni, student Kailey Bridge, teacher Christine Nicholson and Principal Ron Hodkinson.

Central Manitoulin Public School
Central Manitoulin Public School received a Toyota Evergreen Grant to support sustainability, with flower beds, vegetable gardens and trees being planted. Fresh fruit and vegetables are harvested for the breakfast program and the flower beds contribute to bird and monarch butterfly habitats. The outdoor re-greening projects also provide excellent opportunities to integrate environmental education into everyday learning. The Go Green Team leads a number of initiatives including the school’s composting program and events such as boomerang and lights out lunches, and Turn It Off Tuesdays. Go Green members perform regular audits to monitor food waste, recycling and energy use. Students and staff participate in activities such as the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup, and celebrate international events like Earth Day and Mountain Day. Staff and students continue to build prosperous relationships with community volunteers and partners to sustain their efforts. Congratulations on your Go Green Globe Award! Accepting the award on behalf of Central Manitoulin Public School is Principal Tracey Chapman.

GO GREEN GLOBE AWARDS – 2016

S. Geiger Public School
S. Geiger Public School received a Silver level EcoSchools certification with the help of their very active Eco Team, made up of students, staff and parent volunteers. The Eco Team delivers regular eco-related presentations and morning announcements. Students participate in classroom projects, exploring modern energy trends, investigating reusable energy sources, monitoring the effects of pollution on clean water, and examining the use of earthworms to convert organic waste into fertilizer. Students enjoy eco-challenges, including waste audits and litterless lunches, and are often rewarded for their environmentally friendly practices. The entire school community conserves energy regularly with lights out. Apple trees shade the schoolyard, and cedar log garden beds are used to grow vegetables for the school’s annual fall harvest feast. Staff and students continue to build prosperous relationships with community volunteers and partners to sustain their efforts.  Congratulations S. Geiger Public School! Accepting the award on behalf of S. Geiger Public School are Principal Cori Pitre and teacher Justin Spencer who is a member of the school’s Eco Team.

Confederation Secondary School
Confederation Secondary School is currently working towards an Ontario EcoSchools certification. This provincial initiative encourages environmentally conscious behaviour through teamwork and leadership, energy conservation, waste minimization and school ground greening. At Confederation Secondary School, students demonstrate teamwork and leadership by participating in the Board’s monthly environmental challenges, including Water Bottle Free Day, Sweater Day and Eat Local Day. Staff and students promote eco-friendly practices, with Lights Out Fridays as well as schoolyard and neighbourhood clean ups.  New students are given reusable stainless steel water bottles imprinted with environmental tips. Students and staff practice waste minimization through Good On One Side reusable single-sided paper bins, which are placed throughout the school in photocopy rooms, classrooms and computer labs. Students have also been taught how to properly grow and plant tree seedlings. Rainbow District School Board is pleased to recognize Confederation Secondary School for its efforts to foster sustainability. Congratulations! Accepting the award on behalf of Confederation Secondary School are Principal Pablo Gil-Alfau and teacher Catherine Carriere.

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE – 2015

Beth Davidson – Teacher – Central Manitoulin Public School
With close to 30 years as an educator, Beth Davidson believes every student can learn. An inspiring teacher, she worked diligently to ensure students made individual gains on a daily basis and encouraged them to spread seeds of kindness. An exemplary role model, she was a goal-oriented and reflective practitioner who asked herself how things could be done better. Beth Davidson’s dedication to literacy was highlighted in literacy best practice DVDs and a series of Reading at Home tip sheets for parents/guardians. She taught volunteers how to read to at-risk students and spent two years as a Literacy Coach. A trailblazer for Aboriginal culture and education, Beth implemented Aboriginal Day at Adamsdale Public School. She also understood the importance of modern educational practices and was a strong advocate for iPads at Central Manitoulin Public School. Congratulations on your Award for Excellence!

Doris Peristeridis – Secretary – Gord Ewin Centre for Education
Doris Peristeridis is a self-motivated learner with a variety of technical and clerical skills. As Secretary at the Gord Ewin Centre for Education, she is quick to analyze situations and identify how tasks can be completed efficiently. With a background in accounting, her data entry capabilities are top notch. She has the ability to multi-task within the office environment and often seeks proficiencies in her actions. Doris Peristeridis has developed an outstanding rapport with staff, students, parents and community members alike. She ensures that any and all matters are addressed with careful consideration and the utmost professionalism. It is evident that she cares deeply for those around her, as she is always willing to lend a helping hand. Her creativity, dedication and skilled enthusiasm for her work make her an ideal recipient of an Award for Excellence. Congratulations!

Lorrilyn Powers – Educational Assistant – Lansdowne Public School
Lorrilyn Powers has been an Educational Assistant for 10 years. She helps students at Lansdowne Public School build positive learning habits and self-confidence. She nurtures the whole student, considering academic, physical, and emotional needs to provide a proactive approach to learning. She ensures students experience challenges on a daily basis and they are supported in all subjects. Lorrilyn leads Lansdowne’s junior soccer team. She takes pride in guaranteeing students have uniforms and equipment, and encourages fair play and sportsmanship. She runs the school’s snack program each day and has nurtured student leadership through the recruitment of a student support team.  She teaches guitar, coordinates youth activities in the community, and acts as a role model in and out of the classroom. Self-motivated, attentive, quiet, and humble, Lorrilyn Powers leads by example. For Lorrilyn, there are no problems, only solutions. Congratulations!

Marlene Rantala – Program Leader Student Services – Lockerby Composite School
Conscientious and caring, Marlene Rantala brought a wealth of enthusiasm to Lockerby Composite School. During her 32 years with the Board, she taught Co-op, English and Family Studies. She also served as Program Leader in various pathways. Regardless of her position, her passion for student achievement remained her primary focus. Marlene Rantala was always willing to go the extra mile. Students relied on her for guidance on postsecondary education and career paths. A strong leader, she spearheaded a number of initiatives for students, including building positive relationships with community members and developing a student services website. She worked diligently with the Student Success Team to raise awareness and respond to at risk students and students with special needs. As Chairperson of the Sudbury and District Guidance Counselors Association for two years, she was also a role model for colleagues. Congratulations!

Heather Theijsmeijer – Teacher – Manitoulin Secondary School
Creative and innovative, Heather Theijsmeijer is a highly successful 21st century educator. She is an active member of the Student Success Team and Technology Committee, and Numeracy Professional Learning Community. Her commitment to student success inspired her to integrate a Bring Your Own Device philosophy into her math and science classes. As co-leader of Manitoulin IGNITEd, she educates teachers across the province about current strategies. She speaks regularly and volunteers for the Science Teachers’ Association of Ontario and shares her technological expertise during professional learning. Last year, she earned a provincial Award for Exceptional and Creative Teaching in Secondary Mathematics. Heather Theijsmeijer brings learning to life with guest speakers, inquiry and experimentation, and always puts the needs of students first. She also contributes to the school community by coaching gymnastics, fundraising for gymnastics equipment, conducting school choirs, managing the technical crew for school musicals, and leading yoga. Congratulations!

AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE – 2016

Paula Fraser – Office Supervisor – Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School
When you enter the main office at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School, Paula Fraser greets you with a smile and a warm welcome. An exceptional Office Supervisor, she is an excellent ambassador for the school, where her professionalism and poise make the environment a better place to be. Everyone appreciates her “leave it with me” attitude, sense of humour, ability to handle emergencies with grace and fortitude, resourcefulness, flexibility, and her genuine care and compassion. In her daily interactions with students, parents, teachers and the community, she demonstrates strong interpersonal skills as she proceeds through her tasks, effortlessly juggling the many demands for her time and expertise. It is not uncommon for colleagues to call on her knowledge, which she willingly shares. Paula’s service extends beyond the school day as she generously helps out at school events, building positive relationships for the benefit of students. Congratulations!

Mike Gaudin – Custodian – R.H. Murray Public School
Prior to joining R.H. Murray Public School, Mike Gaudin was a custodian at Webbwood Public School, where he contributed to building community. Whether performing tasks for staff or having students accompany him during his rounds, Mike was always there for anyone in need. He completed his daily duties with pride, and went above and beyond by sharing his talent in arts and athletics. He designed and painted Webbwood Wildcat athletic murals throughout the gym, artwork that will be featured on school spirit wear. He also coached junior and intermediate volleyball teams, leading students into the top ten at Rainbow District School Board tournaments. Graduates would keep Mike updated on their developing skills and proud moments, and he would often make time to watch them play at the high school level. An exceptional role model, Mike Gaudin is most deserving of an Award for Excellence.

Michele Henschel – Program Coordinator – Gord Ewin Centre for Education
As Program Coordinator for Science and Technological Studies from Grades 7 to 12, Michele Henschel shares her expertise and passion across the Board to improve student achievement. She is also a past Chair of the Science Consultants and Coordinators Association of Ontario and volunteers on the Program Advisory Committee for Science North. Teachers learn strategies to plan lessons and assessments that incorporate curriculum expectations in a fun and engaging way. She celebrates what works well, credits students and teachers for doing their best, and inspires all with new practices supported by research. Her effectiveness is reflected in the higher applied science pass rates.  An invaluable resource, teachers readily approach Michele for advice and guidance. Her commitment to student success, inquiry approach to science and technology education, and whole-hearted support for colleagues make her an ideal candidate of an Award for Excellence.

Linda Houle – Lunchroom Supervisor – A.B. Ellis Public School
Linda Houle has been a lunchroom supervisor at A.B. Ellis Public School for more than 10 years, and her impact extends far beyond nutritional breaks. Giving and caring, she demonstrates a genuine concern for student well-being and enriches the school experience. A dedicated volunteer, she does the little things that make the school a great place to be, whether decorating for the holidays, helping out at school events, sharing a kind word with a student, or providing extra support with reading and mathematics. In return, she insists that the students demonstrate respect and perseverance, qualities that will contribute to their success at school and beyond. Linda makes a point of learning the names of students and takes time to talk to them about what is happening in their life. She also has an excellent rapport with teachers who appreciate her many contributions. Congratulations!

Lise Orsini – Educational Assistant – Northeastern Elementary School
Lise Orsini has dedicated her career to inspiring students with special needs to see their true potential. An Educational Assistant since 1998, she has touched many hearts in many schools. Lise encourages students to persevere through difficult times by making learning fun. Working with a student who was visually impaired changed her view of the world, encouraging her to support students with special needs in new ways. Consistent and fair, she gives students the voice they need to advocate for themselves. Her support, communication and collaboration with the classroom teacher, students, families and community agencies are second to none. She also willingly shares her expertise with colleagues, for the benefit of all students. In her role, Lise models two philosophies – each person within the team can make a difference and when we all work together, we can accomplish great things. Congratulations!

Line Roberge – Teacher – Sudbury Secondary School
As Program Leader for Arts Education, Line Roberge is a dynamic educator with a deep understanding of teaching and learning.  A consummate professional, she connects with students and cares about their well-being. Grounded in a firm belief that all students can achieve success, Line creates a classroom climate built on trust. Students are encouraged to make an investment in their own success and to become active, competent and critical lifelong learners. As a producer, choreographer and director of Sudbury Secondary School’s main stage productions, Line has the ability to juggle managerial, instructional, performance and creative aspects with ease. She sets high standards and students rise to the occasion. Line stays current, acquiring new teaching and learning practices for the benefit of students.  She shares her expertise with colleagues and the arts community, where she is highly respected. She is also a role model for resiliency. Congratulations!

Jim Wachnuk – Principal – Queen Elizabeth II Public School
Jim Wachnuk serves with a moral purpose and a strong commitment to raising standards in student achievement, personal well-being and the community as a whole. As Principal of Queen Elizabeth II Public School, he has built positive interpersonal relationships with students, staff, parents/guardians and partners. Parents are proud that their children attend Queen Elizabeth. Considered firm but fair, Principal Wachnuk has an exceptional rapport with students, demonstrating care, compassion and patience, particularly with students who require extra support. Jim Wachnuk leads by example. He actively engages in math professional learning, attends special education meetings, uses effective practices, and makes time to thank everyone for their contributions to the school community. His recognition has inspired everyone to go above and beyond not because it is expected, but because it is appreciated. Congratulations!

BARBARA KONAREK MEMORIAL AWARD – 2015

Paula Gorgichuk – Special Education Resource Teacher – Ruth MacMillan Centre
As a Special Education Resource Teacher, Paula Gorgichuk maintains a high level of support for students with autism and behavioural needs. Recognizing the importance of engaging students in team activities, no matter what their level of participation, she ensures that students are included in as many enriched and extra-curricular activities as possible.  And she relishes the opportunity to celebrate all achievements, no matter how big or small. She also contributes the necessary guidance and motivation for students to reach their full potential. A leading educator, Paula Gorgichuk is committed to collaborating with support staff and local agencies to ensure smooth transitions. She gives back to the school community through coaching, assisting with events, and participating in parent evenings to answer any questions about special education. Paula Gorgichuk’s gracious nature makes her an ideal candidate for the Barbara Konarek Memorial Award.

BARBARA KONAREK MEMORIAL AWARD – 2016

Sue Del Riccio – Itinerant Teacher – Gord Ewin Centre for Education
Sue Del Riccio understands the need to educate the whole child. An exemplary educator with a deeply rooted moral purpose, her commitment to the well-being of students is evident on a daily basis. Sue has been a driving force in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Plans. She also plays a leadership role on the Rapid Mobilization Table and the Violence Threat Risk Assessment Steering Committee that bring agencies together to support students in crisis. Her primary objective is to find students the help they need within the community to get back on track and be successful in school. Sue recently completed the training to become certified to train others in the VTRA Level 1 process. When it comes to providing support to students in need, Sue works around the clock, putting safety and well-being first and foremost. She is most-deserving of the Barbara Konarek Memorial Award.

WILLIAM N. ROMAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD – 2015

Sara Neva – Teacher – R.H. Murray Public School
Sara Neva’s students describe her as tireless, kind and understanding. An exceptional motivator and gifted teacher, she inspires students at R.H. Murray Public School to strive for greatness. With a keen understanding that students learn differently, she engages even the most reluctant learners. Attentive and respectful, Sara Neva gives students a sense of comfort when asking for help. She embraces new initiatives and integrates hands-on learning into all aspects of her program. Sara is a life-long learner whose eagerness to do her best is evident. Humble and approachable, she enjoys sharing her knowledge and joy of life. She organizes spaghetti dinners, play days, fundraisers, graduations, field trips and sporting events. Teachers, support staff and parents value her ideas and opinions. Sara Neva is well-respected among the Whitefish community. Congratulations! Joining Board Chair Doreen Dewar and Director of Education Norm Blaseg for the presentation of the William N. Roman Teacher of the Year Award are Mrs. Olga Roman and daughter Donna Rudakas.

WILLIAM N. ROMAN TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD – 2016

Cory Ross – Teacher – Lively District Secondary School
An Instrumental music teacher in the Intermediate Program at Lively District Secondary School, Cory Ross brings learning to life through music education, which reinforces academic skills and nurtures life skills. Over the years, he has taken 15 bands to MusicFest Canada, including the Grade 7 and Grade 8 concert bands at Lively District Secondary School, which earned a Gold standing this year. This is most impressive given that the Grade 7 Band is made up primarily of students who have just learned to play an instrument. He also runs a Rock Band development program. In addition to organizing concerts, many for fundraising events, Cory works tirelessly to inspire students to explore their musical talents through original works and performance opportunities.  Many of his students continue to study, compose and share their musical talents following graduation. Congratulations! Joining Board Chair Doreen Dewar and Director of Education Norm Blaseg for the presentation of the William N. Roman Teacher of the Year Award are Mrs. Olga Roman and daughter Donna Rudakas.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171, ext. 7217.