Two PECI teachers honoured with ‘Great Place Awards’

PECI teachers Lisa Fraser and Matt Sheahan (centre) were named recipients of the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board Great Place Award. They were honoured Thursday morning (from left) by: vice-principal Angie Friel, HPEDSB board of trustee chairperson Shannon Binder, Sheahan, Fraser, vice-principal Therese McMahon and former PECI principal and current board System Lead for Equity, Inclusion, Safe Schools Darren McFarlane. – Photos by Robbie Garden Photography 

Two Prince Edward Collegiate Institute teachers invited to a presentation to honour each other Thursday morning, didn’t know they were both to receive top honours from the school board.

Teachers Lisa Fraser and Matthew Sheahan were honoured with Great Place Awards – the highest recognition at Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board – which recognize outstanding contributions by students, employees, parents and guardians and community partners.

Fraser has been on staff for more than 30 years and is retiring this year.

Sheahan is well-known for leading students in many inclusive drama performances. He also teaches English and indigenous studies.

They are among nine 2019 recipients who will be officially recognized at the public board meeting Monday, May 27.

The Great Place Awards Committee received 12 nominations to judge on criteria that aligns with the eight Growing with Character attributes: caring, cooperation, honesty, humour, integrity, respect, responsibility and trustworthiness.

Also receiving awards this year, are: Shawn Grant, a custodian at Hermon Public School; Kate Hanna, a volunteer at Prince Charles Public School, Trenton; John Jenkins, volunteer/community soccer coach at Bayside Secondary School; Dan Joly, constable, Belleville Police Service; Richard Long, teacher at Bayside Secondary School; Jay Noack, teacher at Trenton High School and Angela Reid, secretary at Coe Hill School.