(Quebec) Time to Celebrate Excellence: Applications are Open for the 2024-2025 QESBA Excellence in Education Awards

​The Québec English School Boards Association (QESBA) established the Excellence in Education Awards in 2014 to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of educators, administrators, parents, professionals, and school board members across Quebec’s nine English school boards. ​For 2024-2025, applications are open until Friday, April 4th, 2025.

Recent Recipients and Initiatives

• Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB): In May 2024, LBPSB was honoured with three QESBA Excellence in Education Awards for the following initiatives:​
  • Strong Is Confident: A program developed by the Family School Support & Treatment Team (FSSTT) to empower teenage girls by enhancing their self-confidence, motivation, and assertiveness through CrossFit training.
  • Communication Stations: An initiative by the Centre of Excellence for Autism Spectrum Disorder, in collaboration with LEARN, providing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools to all English elementary and secondary public schools in Quebec. These stations aim to improve communication for students, particularly those with autism, enhancing their participation in school life.
  • Thrive: A Sociovocational Integration Training Program at Place Cartier Adult Education Centre designed for students aged 16 to 26 with mild intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, physical disabilities, or learning disabilities. The program focuses on preparing students for full-time employment, upgrading essential skills, and fostering community involvement.​
• St. Willibrord School (New Frontiers School Board): Recognized for its outdoor learning and nature-based play initiative, St. Willibrord School received a QESBA Excellence Award in May 2024. This initiative emphasizes the importance of connecting students with nature to enhance their learning experiences. ​

Looking Ahead to 2024-2025

As the 2024-2025 academic year unfolds, QESBA continues its commitment to acknowledging excellence within the English educational community. Member school boards, schools, and vocational and adult education centers are encouraged to submit nominations showcasing innovative programs, dedicated staff, and impactful initiatives that contribute to student success and community engagement.​

The Excellence in Education Awards serve as a testament to the dedication and innovation present within Quebec’s English school boards, inspiring others to pursue excellence in education.

Ready to submit an application? Here is this year’s form. Applications are open until Friday, April 4th, 2025.

The QESBA Excellence in Education Awards will be presented at the 2025 QESBA/AAESQ Spring Conference in Mont Saint-Saveur, from May 14 to 16th. Category winners will receive a commemorative citation and a $500.00 bursary in the name of the school board they represent.

Sources:

• Lester-B.-Pearson School Board
• Journal St-François