Province opens the nomination process for Premier's Awards for Excellence in Education

As part of the observation today of World Teachers' Day, the province of British Columbia has announced the opening of the nomination period for the Premier's Awards for Excellence in Education.

The awards pay recognition towards B.C. teachers, support staff workers, administrators and school district leaders who have made outstanding contributions to their students and school communities. 

The launch coincides with the global salute to educators through  World Teachers’ Day, which recognizes the rights, roles and responsibilities of teachers around the world. 

With the Premier paying his own tributes to the dedicated teachers, support staff and school leaders are the foundation of what the Premier describes as B.C.’s world-class education system. 

In a statement as part of the launch of the nominations process, Premier John Horgan hailed the work of educators and officials in the education system for their tireless efforts through the pandemic period.

“Every day in our province, education professionals put the needs of students first in order to best support their personal growth and academic potential. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers, support staff and administrators have worked tirelessly to ensure students stay safe and healthy during these unprecedented times. These awards allow us to celebrate education professionals who have gone above and beyond in classrooms and schools across the province.”

The challenges of the last eighteen months were also noted by BCTF President Teri Mooring as part of today's announcement.

“It has been a tough year and a half for all of us in the school system. Whether you are a teacher, school staff member, student, or parent, the pandemic has challenged us all in many different ways. Through it all, teachers have been there with heart and professionalism to make sure every student feels supported and valued. After a year’s hiatus, it is good to see these awards return as recognition of all of the amazing work done by the incredibly caring people working in our schools.”

When it comes to the Awards, There are 10 categories for British Columbians to nominate an individual or team of education professionals who work in the public, independent or First Nations school systems as teachers, principals, vice-principals, administrators and support staff. 

Nominations will be accepted until Jan. 7, 2022. 

All previously submitted nominations from the 2020 awards program, which was postponed due to the pandemic, will be included in the 2021 submissions. 

You can access the nomination form and start the process here.

More notes on the program can be explored here.

A look back at the previous winners from 2019 and 2018 can be reviewed here.

More from the BC Legislature is available from our archive page.

While notes on education in the Northwest can be examined here.