The nominees for this year’s Inspiring Success Award of Distinction include East Elementary School (EES) Educational Assistant, Joyce Rylander.

Joyce Rylander has brought joy into EES through leadership, hosting breakfast events, and hugs, lots and lots of hugs. Joyce would go out of her way to connect with staff even on her busiest days. She greets everyone with a smile, a grateful attitude and, of course, a hug. She is a magnetic force and staff and students are naturally drawn to her.

Joyce has inspired success through student-focused learning by committing to mentoring students. She takes the time to get to know them and really develop a connection. In turn, students respect her and even, in their most challenging times, turn to her for support.

“I wish to nominate Joyce Rylander, a friend and colleague of eight years, for the Inspiring Success Award of Distinction. She is a compassionate and kind person–the kind of person who goes out of her way to help others every day,” said one of the nominators, Lia Chernenkoff. “When she is not caring for her loved ones at home, she cares for her work family. I can think of no one more deserving of this award than Joyce Rylander.”

Joyce develops close connections with students by learning about their interests and joys. She creates a supportive environment by following students’ lead and showing flexibility and understanding that all students learn at different times and ways. Her patient approach is modelled daily. Joyce is extremely passionate about working in a school setting. She has devoted her career to bringing joy to others as an educational assistant.