Michael was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“I would like to nominate Michael Garvey for his exceptional work as a custodian at St. Martin CES. Michael is the epitome of professionalism and dedication. He is always calm and composed, no matter how busy the day gets. He consistently stays on top of tasks, ensuring the school remains clean, safe, and welcoming for both students and staff. Michael goes above and beyond, often interacting with students in a positive and respectful manner, making them feel valued and comfortable. His attention to detail and commitment to maintaining a tidy, well-organized school environment never go unnoticed. Michael’s positive attitude and hard work contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere of the school, making it a better place for everyone. His respectfulness, work ethic, and consistent presence truly make him an invaluable member of the St. Martin CES team.”

Jennifer was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“When it comes to Jenn Page-Kollarik, there is no one who cares about their colleagues and students more. She goes above and beyond for every person in her life. She just radiates joy; she makes each of our days better. She has been a shoulder to cry on, a cheerleader when we’re feeling down, and an ear to listen to all good and bad days of every student and staff. Nothing brightens the days of the St. Joseph’s like Jenn. The safety and comfort she gives the parents and students is applauded. Only Jenn can come into the office and go “Nothing beats those days where its just so much fun you don’t want to sit!” and you know its genuine. She is truly loved by all.”

Larissa is a Teacher at St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School in Bowmanville.

Larissa was nominated by a colleague, who said:

“Larissa’s ability to build strong, meaningful relationships with her students is truly inspiring. She creates an environment where students feel safe to take chances and actively engage in learning. By allowing them to work at the whiteboards, she encourages them to not only solve problems but to take ownership of their learning journey. Her classroom is a space where students feel comfortable making mistakes and growing from them, which is essential for building confidence in math and beyond.

Her kindness, patience, and unwavering support are cornerstones of her teaching. Larissa consistently goes above and beyond, whether it’s providing extra help in the math room or taking the time to connect math and science concepts to real-world applications. She doesn’t just teach content; she fosters a deep understanding that students can carry with them long after they leave her classroom.

Larissa firmly believes that she and parents are partners in education. She routinely communicates with parents about ongoing progress and concerns. She approaches these conversations with positivity and embracing the growth mindset. She is quick to bring any developing concerns around student mental wellness to the attention of the child’s caring adult(s) and the school student success team.

Beyond her academic contributions, Larissa also enriches the school community through her involvement in the Yay for Yarn club. As a staff supervisor, she shares her crafting skills, creating an inclusive space where students can relax, express creativity, and form bonds with one another. She is also an advocate for self-care, participating in our yoga club and showing her students the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in life.

In addition to all of this, Larissa has a unique talent for baking, and her delicious treats are a highlight of our school events. Her thoughtfulness and generosity extend beyond the classroom, making her a beloved member of our staff.”