Announcing Parks Canada’s Ambassador for Education Award winner!
Sault Ste. Marie teacher surprised by Parks Canada staff at school assembly
February 24, 2011
Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Yesterday, during an assembly at Grand View Public School in Sault Ste. Marie, Parks Canada staff members Pamela Jalak and Jeanette Cowen surprised teacher Jackie Barrett with the 2010-2011 Parks Canada’s Ambassador for Education award.
“The Sault Canal looks forward to Ms. Barrett’s visit each year, and to her students’ participation in our education programs. We’re very excited to present Parks Canada’s Ambassador for Education Award to her today in front of her students and colleagues. This award recognizes Ms. Barrett’s enthusiasm in sharing Canada’s cultural heritage and history with the youth of today,” said Ms. Cowen.
Since 2007, the Ambassador for Education Award has recognized the important role teachers play in helping Canadian youth connect with our country’s natural and cultural heritage through supporting education programs at national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas. Ms. Barrett joins winners from across the country who have been honoured for their efforts to engage students and increase awareness and appreciation of their heritage.
Ms. Barrett did not know she had been nominated, nor did she know she was the winner of the award. Over the years, she has brought over 120 students to the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site to participate in the enhanced education programs targeted at Grades 4 and 5. At the award presentation, Ms. Barrett received a framed certificate, a copy of Canada’s National Parks: A Celebration, a new book that commemorates Parks Canada’s centennial as the world’s first national parks service, and a 2011/12 Parks Canada Discovery Pass, entitling her and her family to free entry into national parks, national marine conservation areas and national historic sites across Canada.
Through educational outreach and programming, Parks Canada engages youth and shares with them our country’s unique natural and cultural treasures. This year, Parks Canada is celebrating its 100 birthday and its establishment in 1911 as the world’s first national parks service. Come celebrate with us!
