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³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø Excellence Awards

 Congratulations to the 2025 ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø Excellence Awards Recipients!

Photo of 2025 Excellence Award Recipients

Below is the list of this year’s recipients by category, along with a brief summary of their outstanding contributions. The Excellence Awards criteria align with the shared system priorities of the ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø community. The nomination categories reflect our focus on ensuring all students can achieve, belong, and thrive in revitalized learning environments – all underscored by our foundational commitment to equity and to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. 

Student Achievement & Engagement Category

Jana Leggett
Jana Leggett

Speech Language Pathology – Transforms language instruction and literacy by leading collaborative, inclusive efforts that engage educators, specialists, and families.

Tobie Loukes
Tobie Loukes

Kâpapâmahchakwêw - Wandering Spirit School – Enriches student identity and learning by integrating Indigenous arts and culturally responsive curricula that celebrate Indigenous knowledge.


Enhancing Belonging & Wellbeing Category

Shannon Gibney
Shannon Gibney
Seneca School – Enhances family and school connections for students with complex needs by providing inclusive resources and culturally sensitive engagement.
Debbie Grounds
Debbie Grounds
George Webster Elementary School – Cultivates student belonging and life skills through inclusive initiatives that transform school culture and empower student voices.
Keith Hoare
Keith Hoare
Thistletown Collegiate Institute – Champions food security and sustainability initiatives that nourish and empower the school community.
Angela Kinghan
Angela Kinghan
Cornell Junior Public School – Builds school spirit and inclusion through student leadership, cultural celebration, and community engagement.
Jennifer Torkos
Jennifer Torkos
Taylor Creek Public School – Advocates and implements support that ensures students with special needs feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Combatting Hate & Racism Category

Kulsoom Anwer
Kulsoom Anwer
Westview Centennial Secondary School – Advances equity by developing strategies and resources that affirm Muslim identities and combat Islamophobia, empowering students and communities across the ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø.
Saraya Elwin
Saraya Elwin
Downsview Secondary School – Fosters equity and inclusion by mentoring educators and creating safe, empowering spaces that promote student well-being and social justice.
Rukiya Mohamed
Rukiya Mohamed
Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement – Strengthens anti-racism efforts through innovative programs and partnerships that empower educators, students, and families to build inclusive learning environments.

Delivering Operational Excellence Category

Anthony Knight
Anthony Knight
Mobile & Web Development – Creates inclusive, equity-centered experiential learning programs that equip students with entrepreneurship and tech skills.
Ehsan Rahman
Ehsan Rahman
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Jesse Pawinicz
Jesse Pawinicz
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Rennaldo Javier
Rennaldo Javier
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Roger Rodriguez
Roger Rodriguez
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.