The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Education:

Speaker, as we are nearing the Easter break in schools and looking toward the end of another year, it is time to once again recognize educators that have gone above and beyond for students and school communities.

Today, I am pleased to announce the opening of nominations for the second annual Premier’s Award for Teaching Innovation and the Minister of Education’s Award for Compassion in Teaching.

Last year we were pleased to introduce these awards that recognize teaching excellence in areas that have at times been overlooked, but which are meaningful and impactful for our province’s K-12 students.

The Premier’s Award for Teaching Innovation recognizes primary, elementary or secondary teachers in all disciplines who have demonstrated innovation in instruction and a commitment to preparing their students for future success.

The Minister’s Award for Compassion in Teaching recognizes inspirational and compassionate teachers at the primary, elementary or secondary level who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the social, emotional and mental health of their students, colleagues or school community as a whole.

Speaker, last year we held the first annual award ceremony here in Confederation Building and it was a very special ceremony. Members from both sides of the aisle joined the festivities and I think all who took part can agree that it was extremely gratifying to see the pride of the educators who were recognized, their families and their colleagues.

I encourage students, teachers, colleagues and administrators to nominate a deserving teacher today. The deadline for submissions is May 20. Information about the awards and the guidelines are available on the Department of Education’s web page.