Everyday Heroes: Kathy Bidgood, Nora Green, and Michelle Towns
We are honoured to present this week’s Everyday Heroes for the 2023/24 school year.
Our everyday heroes are the epitome of compassion, devotion and care, transforming everyday tasks into extraordinary impacts.
Their subtle yet powerful actions not only elevate the experiences of colleagues but also enrich the lives of the students we proudly serve. They are more than just supportive adults or empathetic peers; they are the vibrant pulse of our educational community, profoundly touching the lives of all they encounter.
Our everyday heroes come in all forms, quietly making a difference in our schools and board offices, yet very often they overlook or downplay their own actions.
This week we are celebrating Kathy Bidgood, Nora Green, and Michelle Towns.
Kathy Bidgood
Kathy is a Student Success Teacher at Holy Trinity CSS. Kathy was nominated by a colleague, who said:
“Katherine Bidgood deserves the Everyday Hero award. She consistently embodies the essence of selflessness and compassion in our workplace. With an unwavering dedication to helping others, Kathy goes above and beyond expectations daily, leaving a positive impact on our students and staff members. Whether it’s lending a listening ear to a struggling coworker or student, volunteering for extra curricular activities (LINK, swimming, track and field), or simply brightening everyone’s day with her smile, Kathy consistently demonstrates extraordinary kindness and empathy. She is a hard worker who makes regular sacrifices for the betterment of our students. She is an amazing teacher, coworker, leader, and friend. In a world where heroism is often associated with grand gestures, Kathy reminds us that true heroism lies in the small acts of kindness and compassion we perform each day. Her exemplary dedication to making the lives of those around her better truly makes her deserving of recognition as an Everyday Hero. ” |
Nora Green
Nora is a SERT at St. Stephen CSS. Nora was nominated by a colleague, who said:
“Nora exemplifies the essence of an everyday hero through her unwavering commitment and selflessness as a special education resource teacher. In her role, she not only imparts knowledge but also fosters an environment of safety, support, and growth for her students. First and foremost, Nora provides a safe haven for her students. She understands the unique challenges they face and ensures that her classroom is a refuge where they can be themselves without fear of judgment or ridicule. This safe space is essential for their emotional well-being and academic progress. Moreover, Nora goes above and beyond to help her students succeed academically. She recognizes that each student has their own pace and learning style, and she tailors her approach accordingly. Whether it’s providing assistance with course work or offering guidance, Nora ensures that her students have the resources they need to thrive. Beyond the classroom, Nora extends her support by accompanying students on the March Break trip as a chaperone. This demonstrates her dedication to their holistic development and her willingness to go the extra mile to ensure their safety and enjoyment. One of Nora’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to build healthy relationships with her students. She takes the time to listen to their concerns, celebrate their successes, and offer assistance when needed. This trust and rapport form the foundation of a supportive community where students feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Additionally, Nora serves as a mentor for new staff, sharing her wisdom and experience to help them navigate the challenges of special education. Her leadership and guidance not only benefit her colleagues but also contribute to a positive and inclusive school culture. Nora’s dedication, compassion, and commitment to her students make her an incredible human being and a true everyday hero. Through her actions, she not only transforms the lives of her students but also inspires those around her to strive for excellence and compassion in everything they do.” |
Michelle Towns
Michelle is a Teacher at Monsignor O’Donoghue. Michelle was nominated by a colleague, who said:
“We are nominating Michelle Towns as an Everyday Hero, because she inspires and motivates our MOD students to find the hero in themselves EVERYDAY! Michelle is a compassionate and dedicated leader at our school who tirelessly devotes countless hours to helping our students understand the importance of community. She encourages all students to participate in the Terry Fox Run that she organizes each September. Michelle has led a strong and successful Pedal for Hope campaign every year since its inception, in addition to organizing and leading Remembrance Day and Stations of the Cross assemblies annually. Michelle’s sincerity, enthusiasm and warmth are a true gift to us all. Her laughter and stories fill our hallways and hearts everyday! Michelle models the Catholic Graduate Expectations of giving witness to our Catholic social teachings and caring for her school, parish and wider community.” |
We would like to thank Kathy, Nora, and Michelle for their commitment to creating a culture of faith, hope and love to ensure equity and well-being at our board.