Holy Cross CSS Teacher Recognized with Individual Conservationist Award

Jan. 27, 2026

Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School teacher Mike Halloran was recognized with the Individual Conservationist Award at the Otonabee Conservation Annual General Meeting and Environmental Excellence Awards on January 20, 2026.

The Individual Conservationist Award recognizes outstanding individuals who have demonstrated leadership, undertaken meaningful projects, and inspired others to help create a healthier watershed. 

Otonabee Conservation selected Halloran for his dedication to environmental education and his commitment to engaging students in hands-on conservation learning.

Halloran, who coordinates Holy Cross CSS’s Sustainable Environmental Education and Design Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Program, said receiving the award was both humbling and meaningful.

“It’s an honour,” Halloran shared. “I was contacted by Otonabee Region Conservation Authority’s Coordinator of Communications and Outreach on Dec. 18”

A key component of Halloran’s work involves connecting students directly with real-world conservation efforts. His Grade 11 Environmental Science and Grade 12 Environmental Resource Management students regularly participate in tree planting and habitat restoration projects coordinated by Otonabee Conservation.

“It gives students a hands-on experience, while providing an opportunity to learn about the importance of habitat restoration and the role the conservation authority plays in our community,” Halloran explained. “Students also interact with conservation authority staff, which gives them insights into possible post-secondary and career opportunities.”

In addition to off-site learning, students are also making a difference on school grounds. Holy Cross CSS students are currently working on projects to rewild and naturalize areas of the property to increase biodiversity and develop more sustainable habitats. 

Following damage caused by the March 2025 ice storm, students have also been researching native plant species and planting techniques to help restore the forested area of the property, while identifying and limiting the impact of invasive species.

“It’s always nice to get outside to learn and help our environment,” Halloran added. “The Otonabee Conservation staff are excellent to work with and are inspiring for the students.”

For Halloran, conservation education is about preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

“Teaching students about conservation initiatives is crucial,” he said. “We need to provide them with the tools to be successful once they leave Holy Cross, and the ability to positively impact our environment — potentially as a career — is one of those important skills.”

Holy Cross CSS students will be running activities at the Children’s Water Festival in Peterborough in May.