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| From left: Valerie Rosebrugh, Shannon Wood, Genevieve Rochette and Michelle Hill. Not pictured: Theresa Davis. |
Early Childhood Educators Recognized for Outstanding Contributions
TUESDAY, NOV. 14, 2023
E
arly Childhood Educators play an essential role in building positive outcomes for the youngest learners. Their dedication nurtures curiosity and creates welcoming spaces to explore, learn, develop a strong sense of themselves, and mutual respect for those around them. They exemplify the vision to learn, lead and inspire and are instrumental in building a culture of learning, well-being and belonging.
Recently, five Early Childhood Educators in Grand Erie were honoured at the 2023 ECE Awards, presented by Kids Can Fly, in recognition of outstanding contributions to the field within Brantford/Brant County schools. Congratulations to Theresa Davis of Onondaga-Brant Public School, Michelle Hill of Cobblestone Elementary School, Genevieve Rochette of École Dufferin, Shannon Wood of St. George-German School, and this year’s winner of the award of excellence, Valerie Rosebrugh of Grandview Public School!
Valerie Rosebrugh
Grandview Public School
“Val is the rock of the Kindergarten Program here at Grandview. Her love and care for the students, and getting to know them as individuals, is amongst her best qualities. She takes notice of their interests and plans the program and their learning based on those interests. She positively affects these children's lives far past the years they spend in Kindergarten, and at Grandview, and the support she has given me over the years has been unwavering. She is truly remarkable!”
- Lauren Kneale, Educator
Michelle Hill
Cobblestone
Elementary School
“Michelle always puts the needs of her students first. She brings a plethora of skills to build independence and foster a feeling of well-being and belonging inside and outside the classroom. She celebrates her students successes – with them, their peers, other educators and families. Her students feel loved, safe and warm. Michelle is a phenomenal educator.”
- Erica Lapage, LRT
Genevieve Rochette
École Dufferin
“Genevieve is constantly thinking of new ways to engage our students in play and learning. She watches and notices their interests, and makes games and activities that involve them in the process, helping them learn and express themselves and engage in the world around them. She is always reminding me that play is learning, and the biggest messes can be the most fun. She is a trusted colleague, a true friend and partner in learning.”
Shannon Wood
St. George-German School
“Ms. Wood goes above and beyond to make each and every student feel valued and supported. Her calm, friendly approach helps students work through big feelings, and her knowledge and experience makes her a valued member of the entire school community. Her leadership helps learners understand the interconnectedness of all members of the community and the importance of showing appreciation and kindness towards all.”
- Jim Cottam, Principal
Theresa Davis
Onondaga-Brant Public School
“Theresa creates engaging learning opportunities that highlight kindness, empathy, and building confidence in each learner. She advocates strongly for students’ needs, and helps build a network of support within the school community to enable and empower students on their educational journeys. Her caring, encouraging approach helps learners see what’s possible, and ultimately makes the world a better place.”
- Clara Anderson, Principal