NOMINATIONS are once again open for the Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education, an opportunity to recognize the British Columbian education professionals who are dedicated to helping all students reach their full potential.

“At last year’s inaugural excellence in education awards, we heard stories of how innovative and caring education professionals throughout the province are positively impacting the lives of students,” said Premier John Horgan. “This year, we’re looking forward to even more amazing stories of B.C. teachers, administrators and support staff working hard to ensure all students are set up for success.”

The second annual Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education are an opportunity to recognize the contributions of public, independent and First Nations school system teachers, principals, vice-principals, administrators and support staff who go above and beyond to make life better for K-12 students in B.C. This year, 10 awards will be given out with six honouring teachers, two open to school and district administrators, and two recognizing support staff members.

“I strongly encourage all community members to take the time to nominate a deserving education professional for these exciting awards,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education. “For too long, teachers and support staff were undervalued in this province, and we’re working hard to change that. We want to ensure they get the respect and congratulations they deserve, as they play a pivotal role in helping shape tomorrow’s leaders.”

Nominations for the 2019 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education will be accepted until March 31, 2019. The 30 finalists will be announced in mid-April and will be invited to an awards ceremony at Government House in Victoria on October 4, held in conjunction with World Teachers’ Day.

Winners will receive a $3,000 personal bursary for professional learning, a $2,000 contribution to their school community for professional learning and a commemorative artwork. Runners up will receive a certificate of recognition signed by the Premier and Minister of Education.

Glen Hansman, President of the British Columbia Teachers’ Federation, said: “It is gratifying to see Premier Horgan and Minister Fleming recognizing the outstanding work that goes on in B.C.’s public schools every day. The tremendous professionalism and caring of teachers, support staff and administrators working together for children, youth and adult learners is really something to celebrate.”

Paul Faoro, President of CUPE BC, said: “For the second year in a row, I’m pleased to see the government recognizing the more than 31,000 education workers represented by CUPE. Last year’s outstanding support category nominees, finalists and the winner are all stellar examples of the kind of work our members do to support quality public education, and I’m looking forward to this year’s awards.”

Quick Facts:

* The 2018 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education saw 188 education professionals nominated from throughout B.C.

* Nine awards were given out on October 5, 2018, at a ceremony at Government House in Victoria with Premier Horgan, Fleming and Lt. Gov. Janet Austin in attendance.

* There are approximately 72,000 B.C. teaching certificate holders (teachers, administrators, principals and vice-principals) and 37,000 support staff workers in B.C.

* Ten awards will be given out:
– Six awards are open to teachers: community engagement, extracurricular leadership, Indigenous education, outstanding new teacher, social equity and diversity, and technology and innovation.

– One award is open to those in a school-based leadership role: school leadership.

– One award is open to those in a district leadership role: district leadership.

– Two awards are open to support staff: outstanding support – school community (including bus drivers, crossing guards, student supervisors, Indigenous cultural facilitators, custodians, maintenance/trade workers and those working in a clerical function) and outstanding support – teaching assistant (including educational assistants and Indigenous education support workers).

To nominate an education professional for the 2019 Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education, go to: www.gov.bc.ca/excellenceineducation