Each year, the Board's Special Education Advisory Committee (S.E.A.C.) presents the annual Spirit of Inclusion Award to one elementary student and one secondary student with an individual plaque bearing the unique logo, which reflects the Spirit of Inclusion, and a plaque for their respective school for display.
The Spirit of Inclusion Award was created by S.E.A.C. to increase the community’s understanding and awareness of special needs students in our schools and to promote an all-inclusive Board and school population. Teachers and support staff from all of the Board’s schools were invited to submit nominations of students from Grades 1 to 12 level, who demonstrate excellent attitude and spirit in dealing with challenges; cause others to be valued and included; recognize and value schoolmates as unique individuals, each with a contribution to make to the community; may or may not receive special education services; demonstrate a commitment to school activities and are involved in the spiritual life of the school.
This year's recipients are:
Michael Paulic received S.E.A.C. 2014 SPIRIT OF INCLUSION AWARD and he attends St. Vincent Catholic Elementary School.Michael’s positive attitude and kind, caring and patient manner are evident in the support he shows all his class mates and staff but in particular in his friendship with a student who has Asperger’s. He is a quiet role model for all students and staff at St Vincent’s school.
Natalie Discenza received S.E.A.C. 2014 SPIRIT OF INCLUSION AWARD and she attends Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School. Natalie is a student leader who demonstrates a commitment to the betterment of student life as the leader of Titans for Wellness, as a Student Prefect, sports team and band member, as well as a volunteer in the community for many years working with students with special needs.