CCVI, CELP teacher receives Mike Elrick Environmental Leadership Award
GUELPH – Teacher Katie Gad is being recognized for helping students connect with nature, championing environmental sustainability, and inspiring others.
She’s the recipient of the Upper Grand District School Board’s (UGDSB) Mike Elrick Environmental Leadership Award.
She was nominated by colleagues in recognition of her commitment to environmental education and sustainability.
Gad teaches at Centennial Collegiate Vocational Institute and with the board’s Community Environmental Leadership Program (CELP).
Gad has helped hundreds of students connect with nature as they learn about the importance of sustainability.
CELP students particpate in hands-on environmental learning opportunities through outdoor education.
Students can also share their learning with elementary students, take their science, civics and careers courses in the context of current climate issues and form lasting friendships through experiential learning, officials state.
One of Gad’s nominators for the award shared how Gad did many things to help recognize the 30th anniversary of the CELP program this year, including an anniversary reunion, and the arrangement of guest speakers.
“Katie has worked tirelessly to keep Mike’s legacy alive in this school board. Her integrity in maintaining her vision is unparalleled,” the nominator said.
“CELP, the life changing program for our Grade 10 students, continues because Katie wills it to continue. You will never hear Katie talking about her substantial accomplishments. She is a quiet champion of the environment and the vulnerable, making a difference every day in the life of our students and the life of our planet.”
Another of Gad’s nominators said she “embodies environmental leadership and the spirit of this award ... In all that she does both at CELP, as a classroom teacher, and as an active community member, she is keeping Mike Elrick’s legacy alive.
“I have witnessed the immense amount of effort that she puts into fostering environmental leadership skills in her students from both the perspective of a colleague and as a parent of a student in the CELP program.
“Katie works tirelessly to organize strong community connections so that her CELP students have a varied and meaningful experience.”
The Mike Elrick Environmental Leadership Award – named in memory of Elrick, a dedicated UGDSB educator who passed away in 2009 – is presented annually to a UGDSB staff member or volunteer who demonstrates a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. The award honours individuals who model sustainability and inspire others to take action in their schools and communities.
