PVNC Catholic Literacy Team presented with Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award

Sept. 24, 2025

The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board is celebrating a national honour as its literacy team has been presented with the 2025 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award.

At a presentation at last night’s (Sept. 23, 2025) Board meeting, Dyslexia Canada Executive Director Alicia Smith highlighted the transformative work of PVNC Catholic’s literacy team, including Superintendent of Learning Sheila Piggott and Literacy Consultant Lindsay Bowen, who have spearheaded a shift toward evidence-based, structured literacy instruction across the Board.

“Sheila and Lindsay have led a groundbreaking shift towards structured literacy, making PVNC (Catholic) a leader in evidence-based instruction across the country and the province,” she said. 

The nomination, submitted by fellow educators, praised the pair for securing research-based resources such as an explicit, systematic phonics program and decodable books for early learners. 

They also built a system of training, coaching, and follow-up support with PVNC Catholic reading coaches to ensure the effective implementation of these tools.

PVNC Catholic was named as the successful recipient of the award in the spring.

Smith shared that what stood out most in the nomination was the team’s leadership style.

“They lead with humility, openly acknowledging their own learning journeys and empowering others to take ownership in these changes. Their ability to inspire, unite, and elevate others has been instrumental in creating a culture where all students can thrive. So thank you very much, both of you,” Smith added.

The Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award is presented annually to recognize outstanding contributions by Canadian educators who are making a measurable difference in the lives of students with dyslexia.