May 6, 2011: Alison Wojkowski, teacher at W. H. Morden Public School in Oakville, has been named New Teacher of the Year, as part of the prestigious Premier's Awards for Teaching Excellence. W.H. Morden Principal John Pennyfather says Burlington resident Wojkowski is very worthy of this achievement.

"Not only is Alison a strong classroom teacher who works hard to creatively meet the needs of all her students, she has also emerged as a confident leader who has transformed our school in terms of eco education," he says. "I can't think of a more worthy young teacher."

Halton District School Board Director of Education David Euale says the board is proud one of its dedicated new teachers received such an accomplishment.

“Alison's award is a great example of the many new teachers working in our Board who, like all of our teaching staff, are dedicated to student success," Euale says. "We are very proud of Alison's accomplishments and the recognition this brings to our Board."

According to the Premier awards website, criteria for the new teacher honour includes a teacher who has boundless energy and a passion for teaching and learning, demonstrates a thorough understanding of curriculum, shows exemplary commitment to student learning, takes initiative in collaborating with other educators and the school community and has a positive impact on students and the school community, to name a few. Those eligible for nomination for new teacher of the year are certified elementary and secondary teachers in their first three years of teaching.

The Premier's Awards for Teaching Excellence recognize educators and staff who excel at unlocking the potential of Ontario's young people. It recognizes six award categories: Teacher of the Year, New Teacher of the Year, Excellent Support Staff, Excellence in Leadership, Team of the Year and Lifetime Achievement. To learn more about the awards, visit www.edu.gov.on.ca/teachingawards.

NOTE: Photographs are available by contacting the Board’s Communications Department.


For additional information, contact:
      Marnie Denton, Manager of Communications Services
      Halton District School Board
      (905) 335-3663, ext. 2227, Toll free: 1 877 618-3456