Simcoe County District School Board

SCDSB staff and volunteer recognized with Inclusion Excellence Award from Empower Simcoe
Published on Jun 6, 2019 09:32

SCDSB staff and volunteer recognized with Inclusion Excellence Award from Empower Simcoe

The Empower Simcoe Inclusion Excellence Awards are presented annually to educators and community members who promote and exemplify inclusive school environments. In June 2019, two Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) staff and one community volunteer were recognized for the work that they do to support our students and schools.

Recipients of this year’s award are Merrick McKay, teacher at Fred C. Cook Public School, Susan Royal, special education consultant, and Kevin Berry, chair of the SCDSB Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC).

Following are quotes about each award recipient from their nominations:

“McKay has involved the whole school, of over 500 students, in helping spread awareness and teaching inclusion. He works hard to teach all students the importance of acceptance of all students no matter their ability and deserves to be recognized for his efforts in creating an inclusive classroom, school and community.”

“Royal’s teaching career with the SCDSB has spanned more than 10 years, all the time focusing on students with special education needs. Her passion and leadership in the area of educating students with special education needs to develop the skills required to be confident and successful has had a profound impact on the lives of countless students (and families). As a champion of inclusion, her dedication, commitment and leadership has had a positive impact on the outcomes of thousands of students.”

“Berry is a passionate champion of inclusive education. Through his understanding of special education policy and procedures, as well as his strong advocacy for all things related to special education, he maximizes opportunities and outcomes for students and their families, while ensuring students feel truly valued at schools.”

According to Empower Simcoe Marketing and Communications Manager Jamie Hall, “Empower Simcoe is honoured to recognize this year’s Inclusion Excellence Award recipients who make a difference every day for students with exceptionalities. By breaking down barriers, they’ve fostered an atmosphere of compassion and respect within the school environment at the SCDSB. Empower Simcoe congratulates Merrick, Susan and Kevin on being true champions of inclusion.”   

This initiative links directly to the SCDSB’s Strategic Priorities under the pillars of equity, diversity and inclusion, well-being and community.

Information:
Jamie Hall, Marketing and Communications Manager
Empower Simcoe
705-726-9082 x5280
[email protected]