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May 18, 2017-Congratulations to Sheryl Parker and Susie Sewell-Charles, teachers at Queen Victoria School in Belleville. They were awarded a Certificate of Achievement through the Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence.
Parker and Sewell-Charles team-teach the multi-grade, child-centred Adventure Class (Grades 1-6) that delivers the Ontario curriculum through experiential-based learning. The program relies heavily on the involvement of families and older students helping younger students. Community outings, and a culture of fun and belonging emerge from the use of a learning cycle that urges students to observe, plan act and reflect.
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Sheryl Parker
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Susie Sewell-Charles
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"It is an honour for Sheryl and Susie to receive this prestigious award. They are a dynamic teaching team who are committed to teaching and learning, and who are invested in each and every student in their classroom," said Mandy Savery-Whiteway, Director of Education.
According to the nomination, Parker was a co-founder of Project Achieve, an anti-poverty initiative funded by the Ministry of Education and the Elementary Teachers' Federation to dissipate myths and stereotypes surrounding poverty in schools. Parker and Sewell-Charles had their students build a Giving Tree where they hung bags of hats, mitts and socks, as well as a sign inviting people to take what they need.
"When someone takes the time to recognize you for your life's work it is a true honour. I would like to thank all those involved in putting our names forward for this award. This recognition, although given to Susie and myself, is for the team it takes to make meaningful education possible," said Sheryl Parker.
"I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition. I feel very lucky to be able to work with an amazing staff and wonderful parent community to bring learning to life in a unique way for our students. It is a privilege to be part of educating the future citizens of our country!" said Susie Sewell-Charles.
The Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence have honoured exceptional elementary and secondary school teachers in all disciplines since 1993, with over 1,500 teachers honoured to date. Recipients are honoured for their remarkable achievements in education and for their commitment to preparing their students for a digital and innovation-based economy.
Up to 10 Certificates of Excellence (national level) are awarded annually, each including a financial award of $5,000. Certificates of Excellence are awarded to the 10 top-ranked nominees.
Up to 25 Certificates of Achievement (regional level) are awarded annually, each including a financial award of $1,000. Certificates of Achievement are awarded to the next top-ranked nominees.
For more information, please contact:
Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, 613-966-1170 or 1 800 267-4350, extension 2354, [email protected]