The nominees for this year’s Inspiring Success Award of Distinction include Leduc Estates School Principal Denise Harrison. Her career with the Black Gold School Division has been nothing short of incredible, with an extensive list of roles: teacher, coach, ECS Coordinator, AISI Coordinator, volunteer, Summer School Coordinator, Vice Principal, and Principal.

“If you hold a position in, or have a student who attends, or has attended a Black Gold school, chances are you have been impacted by some of Denise’s fine work,” said École Dansereau Meadows School (ÉDMS) teacher and co-nominator Kyla Horvat.

Denise inspires success among her colleagues and students. With experience teaching in classrooms ranging from kindergarten to high school, she is a phenomenal educator who is adept at connecting with students of all ages. “Through teaching, coaching, and organizing special events, Denise always ensures her students feel valued,” said ÉDMS teacher Lindsay Charbonneau, who also nominated Principal Harrison. “She is also a supportive colleague and amazing mentor to numerous student teachers and beginning teachers.”

As an administrator, Denise believes in a collaborative approach to learning. “She honours her colleagues’ ideas and professional knowledge, and continually seeks feedback,” said ÉDMS teacher and co-nominator Pam Verhoeff. “She then uses these ideas to lead and direct in a manner which in turn inspires her staff as they feel heard and respected.”

Most recently, during the 2020-2021 school year, Denise jumped headfirst into the role of principal of Black Gold’s Distance Learning (DL) School. This brand new venture did not deter her. Instead, she did what she does best – she led her staff and students to come together and work as a team.

With a determined growth mindset, Denise tackled every hurdle thrown their way, resulting in an extremely successful school year for the largest school in our Division. This speaks volumes to her incredible leadership skills.

“Denise Harrison is a true champion for her students, staff, colleagues, and community,” said ÉDMS teacher and co-nominator Jessica Campbell. “She epitomizes the term “Inspiring Success”, as she constantly inspires colleagues and students in every role she holds.”