Education and Early Childhood Development
March 23, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development:

Three Newfoundland and Labrador Principals Recently Honoured with National Award

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to congratulate three principals from Newfoundland and Labrador who were recently honoured at the 11th annual Canada’s Outstanding Principals Gala in Toronto.

This year’s winners will join 18 others from our province who have been recognized since 2005. The winners for 2015 are Elizabeth Churchill of Elizabeth Park Elementary in Paradise, Della Healey of Mount Pearl Intermediate and Wilson Warren of All Saints All Grade School in Grey River.

These individuals have all created a safe and caring school environment allowing their students to grow and achieve their highest potential, while providing the guidance and leadership their teachers, staff and parents depend on. They truly embody leadership, creativity and innovation.

Mr. Speaker, the Outstanding Principals Awards are sponsored annually by The Learning Partnership, a national organization dedicated to strong public education systems. Each year the awards recognize 40 principals who have demonstrated innovation, have an entrepreneurial spirit and are creative in finding solutions and opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, a strong principal is the key to an active and engaged school community. Principals set the tone for the school, provide direction for staff, and ensure our students receive a quality education in safe and nurturing learning environments.

Being named as one of this country’s outstanding principals is a testament to leadership and administrative skills, commitment to the school community and a desire to make a difference.

We are fortunate to have so many dedicated principals and teachers working at schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador who take the time to nurture and inspire our students.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all Honourable Members to join me in congratulating this year’s winners. They have the qualities of leadership and innovation that influence the lives of young people and the school community.

2015 03 23                              1:55 p.m.