Black Gold thanks annual division award winners for their contributions
Black Gold School School Division is pleased to announce recipients of its two annual awards. The awards both recognize contribution and excellence, and will be recognized at an upcoming celebration event.
The Superintendent’s Service Award goes to Jackie Bryan, who is an Administrative Assistant at Black Gold’s Outreach School in Leduc. The award is for an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the division’s vision and goals, excelling in their work, going above and beyond job requirements, and making a noticeably positive impact on their work environment.
“Thank you to my colleagues for nominating me, and for being a great team. This award is for the good work all of us do together.” says Jackie Bryan.
The individuals who nominated Jackie say she is the heart of the school. As the person who greets people coming in, Jackie’s ‘ever present smile’ and cheerful greeting, delivered in her signature British accent, brightens everyone’s day. Her authenticity makes her a pillar of the school.
Nominators say Jackie creates a sanctuary for students who may have struggled in previous school situations, and intentionally works to support their success by creating a safe, welcoming and caring atmosphere. She makes an effort to learn each student’s name and story, offering a ‘kind and listening ear’ which puts students at ease.
Jackie is known to treat each student with grace, and has made it a goal to help students have good memories of their school experience. She believes if students don’t finish high school now, they may be more likely to return as adults when they have been treated with kindness.
“Inspiring success at Outreach means being a part of a student’s learning experience from the minute they walk through the door, to the day they walk out of the school having had a successful year,” says Bryan. “Every student has their own individual path and it is so rewarding to see their success.”
Nominators say Jackie is a master of her work, ensuring recordkeeping and student databases are always kept current. They appreciate her knowledge and observe she is often the one to advise others on almost any task and to help staff across multiple campuses.
Jackie serves on the grad committee, going as far as personally ironing every single gown to ensure the milestone is perfect for students. Also, she is a long time member of the social committee. She often is the one to ensure birthdays are celebrated, and she brings the best sticky toffee pudding to the school for special occasions.
“Thank you Jackie for not only going above and beyond in your work, but also for the positivity and hope you share with stuents and staff. Your contribution is important and valued,” says Michael Borgfjord, Superintendent, Black Gold School Division.
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The Board of Trustees Inspiring Success Award of Distinction goes to Sidney M’Sahel, who is a music teacher at Leduc Composite High School. The award is for an individual who has made a notable, significant and positive contribution to Black Gold. The recipient has demonstrated leadership that has had an identifiable impact, and has made a significant difference to public education in the Black Gold community. The individual inspires success in students and staff.
Nominators admire M’Sahel’s dedication to ‘reigniting a thriving and vibrant music program’ at LCHS. As the school’s band and choir director and teacher, he shares his love of music with students, and provides many opportunities for them to enjoy music and grow as musicians. He has organized multiple band camps and concerts, including visits to neighboring elementary and junior high schools. He collaborates with the newly opened Ohpaho Secondary School music program, and supports LCHS’s musical theatre production as music director. M’Sahel even gained a license to drive a school bus in order to facilitate opportunities for students.
“I am honoured to be nominated and receive this award. It’s meaningful to be recognized by my peers and the Board,” says Sidney M’Sahel. “It reinforces that the vision I have is having an impact.”
“I had the benefit of going through an excellent high school music program,” says M’Sahel. “I’ve seen what a strong music program can do for students socially, academically and also from a career perspective. That’s what drives me - creating opportunities for students through increased programming, while also raising the standard of excellence. When students become good at what they’re doing, it brings confidence in their abilities. That is essential to success.”
M’Sahel strives for excellence himself, and models ongoing learning as a member of community bands and choirs. While striving for high standards, M’Sahel is known for his ‘calm, cool, and collected style’. Nominators admire that he listens attentively and responds to students in a way that preserves a safe environment. His high expectations are balanced with his sense of humour. Students are quick to share funny stories about Mr. M’Sahel, including gifting him Hawaiian shirts, and giving him advice about hairstyles he should try. “They like to bug me about my wardrobe choices,” laughs M’Sahel.
“Inspiring success is something I asked about when I was hired here four years ago,” recalls M’Sahel. “What it means to me now is showing students that there is more available to them, to encourage them not to be complacent but to reach for more. Wanting to strive for more is what unlocks success.”
“Congratulations to Sidney, and thanks for the positive impact you are having in Black Gold and with our students,” says Angie Charpentier, Black Gold School Board Vice-Chair. “We admire the opportunities you provide for students, the excellence you inspire, and the way you connect with and encourage students. Thank you for inspiring success!”