VICTORIA – New Democrat MLA Lana Popham congratulates Elaine Bayles from Glanford Middle School on being named as a finalist in this year’s Premier’s Awards for Excellence in Education in the Outstanding Support-Teaching Assistant category. Bayles is one of thirty education professionals throughout B.C. to have been named as finalists, chosen for their leadership, innovation, support and dedication to the students and school community in which they work.
“B.C. teachers, administrators and support staff work hard every day to set up our students for success, and they deserve recognition.” said Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South. “Congratulations Elaine on this achievement. Through your dedication and advocacy, you have made a difference in the lives of many students in our community.”
A gifted education assistant, “Miss Elaine” as she is known to her students, works hard to build lasting and meaningful relationships with all students. She is passionate about connecting with her school’s most vulnerable learners, making her a strong advocate for inclusivity and connectedness. Working with at-risk youth, she helps them explore their identity, recognize the consequences of their actions, and supports them to find a new positive path through life. She sees each child as an individual, is responsive to their needs, and celebrates their achievements – big and small. She also empowers, mentors and collaborates with colleagues, sharing her interest in ensuring that every child feels good about themselves, that they can learn and grow, and acknowledges that they are an important member of their school community.
Launched for the first time in 2018, the 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, school and district leaders, and support staff who go above and beyond to make life better for K-12 students in B.C. This year, 10 awards are being given out with six honouring teachers, two recognizing school and district leaders, and two honouring support staff members. The nomination period ran from Jan. 7 to April 30 and 140 nominations were received.
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Government House in Victoria on Oct. 4, the day before 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.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019PREM0080-001377