Black Gold School Division names annual award nominees

According to her nominators, Sarah Baete fosters a supportive and positive work environment where colleagues feel valued and appreciated. Colleagues say Baete is a role model who prioritizes inclusion, mental health awareness, and personal connections. Staff say Baete builds meaningful relationships accommodating diverse learning needs and that she promotes a sense of belonging.

Jackie Bryan’s colleagues appreciate the way she welcomes people to the Outreach School and her ever-present smile. They say that makes a difference for the students and families arriving at the school. Colleagues admire how Bryan gets to know each student and how she offers a kind, listening ear. They note her intentional effort at creating a welcoming atmosphere for students, and believe Bryan’s efforts ensure students develop good memories of school that will inspire success for a lifetime. 

Nominators in Lori Huber’s circle say she is consistently kind and supportive to everyone around her. They see Huber fostering an environment where every student feels valued, supported and capable of success. Colleagues say Huber embodies the values of kindness, responsibility and collaboration, and that she consistently goes above and beyond her job description, bringing wisdom, warmth and a steady smile to every situation.

Lorraine Kirkpatrick’s colleagues nominated her saying she is a quiet but powerful leader that gives people a safe place to ask questions and learn. Her peers say Kirkpatrick’s “Let’s Chat” series is especially impactful, offering guidance and fostering continuous learning. They appreciate Kirkpatrick’s innovation and strategies for efficient work flows as well as the calm, safe, and supportive environment she provides.

Staff members from Calmar Secondary Collegiate School say Sherry Avery is friendly and positive with staff and students. They admire the pride she has in contributing to a safe and caring environment. Also, they see that Avery helps other custodians do a good job, and that she regularly goes the extra mile, including shovelling in minus 30 weather.

Colleagues who nominated Shannah Barros say she is a mover and shaker, and has been right from the start, when she launched a new Grade 7 band program. In the program, students built confidence, teamwork and a sense of belonging through music. Nominators say Barros has built meaningful relationships, and that she understands and advocates for her students’ success, so that all students feel seen and feel capable. Colleagues say Barros is a passionate advocate for equity and connection, and that she brings joy and approachability in all of her work.

According to staff at Ohpaho Secondary School, David Froland has an unwavering dedication to fostering student and staff success. Colleagues say Froland’s passion for the performing arts and dedication to musical theatre and drama has enriched the school and left a lasting legacy. They also shared that Froland exemplifies leadership through his commitment to collaboration and student empowerment, and his ability to foster strong relationships with students and staff. Nominators appreciate Froland’s kindness and willingness to listen and his genuine enthusiasm for teaching.

A great sense of humour and ability to listen attentively is greatly valued by Sidney M’Sahel’s colleagues, who note these qualities ensure a positive learning environment for students. They say M’Sahel’s passion for creating a vibrant music program has made him a valuable member of the Leduc Composite team, and his willingness to go above and beyond has given students many opportunities. Colleagues admire M’Sahel’s commitment and appreciate the extra time and passion he puts into his craft.

Current Principal, Dan Lake, and Assistant Principals Shelley Hamilton and Wendy Maltais received a nomination from colleagues who say their administration team works tirelessly to create an incredible culture and community at Ohpaho Secondary School. Nominators value the team’s willingness to open the school to stakeholders outside of regular hours for division professional development, Girls in STEM, the Black Gold Leadership Summit, and more. Colleagues say the team has inspired staff to create a school environment where students want to learn and have experiences in and outside of the classroom.

Nominators admire Lyla Purcha’s commitment to supporting students with complex needs, and that she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every child feels safe. They say Purcha is trustworthy, dependable and deeply compassionate, and that she builds strong and respectful relationships with students, families and staff. Colleagues say Purcha’s passion for work shines through in everything she does, and that her genuine investment in the success and well-being of every child, inspires everyone around her.