Congratulations to École Casorso Elementary teacher Helen Park on receiving a Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence Certificate of Achievement.
The kindergarten-grade 1 teacher received the distinction for creating an inclusive classroom where all students can start their K-12 journey feeling safe, confident, and ready to learn.
"We all strive to create inclusive learning environments where each student has agency and can build on their personal strengths and interests to thrive, both as a learner and a whole person," said Jon Rever, Superintendent of Schools. "Helen exemplifies the inclusion and professional collaboration we seek to build every day, and we are all very proud of her as a teacher, mentor, and colleague."
Helen nomination was supported by a parent of a student with diverse needs who is now thriving in school.
"For Helen, inclusivity is non-negotiable, and because of this attitude, our son has never once missed a class experience or been marginalized in any way," said the parent. "Helen's impact goes beyond her own exceptional work because she leads and inspires others. Because of the needs of her students, she hosts many other professionals in her classroom and has built a culture of high expectations and deep collaboration."
Helen Park credits the recognition and success of her classroom to collaborative effort.
"When we can meet the needs of many diverse students, it is thanks to a team of dedicated professionals who can work closely with individual learners and their families," says Park. "I am grateful for this recognition because it underlines that when we all work together, we can build the inclusion that changes the lives of all learners."
Read more of the many reasons why Helen Park received the Award here.
For more information
1940 Underhill Street
Kelowna British Columbia
Canada V1X 5X7
www.sd23.bc.ca
