June 13, 2024
The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) Trustees hosted an evening of staff recognition on June 12 at Maple Lane Haven. They acknowledged and celebrated this year’s retirees, staff who have been with the board for 30 or more years, and recognized four outstanding individuals as part of their “iAM Making an Impact” recognition program.
The iAM Making an Impact recognition program began in 2023 as a re-envisioned version of the I am Always Learning Awards. The program recognizes outstanding projects and initiatives by employees across the system and is focused on the advancement of the priority work of the AMDSB Strategic Plan. This year’s theme related to the “I AM Engaged” pillar of the Plan.
The program received 21 nominations and three initiatives involving four individuals were selected to receive recognition. Congratulations to:
Tracey James Britton and Jenna Lange, Stratford Intermediate School (SIS) for their dedication to the SIS Sports Camp, which engages current and incoming students, and their commitment to incorporating games and activities from Indigenous cultures into physical education programming, is truly admirable! They consistently engage community partners to bring expertise and experience into classroom learning environments, enhancing student engagement, fostering understanding, and providing valuable experiential learning opportunities. Additionally, their collaboration with colleagues to build consistency in physical education and to purchase shared resources contributes to a robust program.
Luke van Schaik, Romeo PS for his creation, development, and sustainment of environmental learning at Romeo PS, as well as his commitment to incorporating Indigenous education. His nomination highlighted his creation of a program and eco club that has grown from two students to more than 20, including staff and a community member. This student-led club has identified key elements of environmental change, engaging the school community and parents. After being awarded a TD outdoor learning grant, Luke created a pollinator garden and expanded outdoor learning in a previously barren space.
Rebecca Wilson, Stratford District SS for her commitment to building personal connections with students and families who may not be engaged with school. Her efforts have enabled outreach, connection, and engagement, creating a supportive school environment that helps some of our learners stay connected to the school system and achieve success. The connections she has established with community partners, along with her mental health and well-being strategies, have fostered confidence and success for her students and their families.
“We are so pleased to have been able to celebrate our retirees, years of service and iAM Making an Impact recipients at Maple Lane Haven. Our staff are the cornerstone of our service to students and families and we are so proud of their contributions to our schools and communities.” Said Robert Hunking, Chair of the Board.
“A warm congratulations and best wishes to all staff retiring this year, a huge thank you to our years of service recipients, and kudos to our iAM Making an Impact recipients and nominees!” Continued Hunking.
An e-magazine showcasing retirees, all years of service recipients (10+ years with the board), iAM Making an Impact recipients and nominees has been posted on the board’s website: Trustee Recognition of Staff.
For more information, please contact:
Chera Longston, Communications Manager
519-301-6363 (cell); [email protected]