Char-Lan District High School is celebrating a remarkable achievement by one of its own. Tracey Moffatt, a dedicated and inspiring Physics and Math teacher, has been named one of the five 2024 recipients of the prestigious Baillie Award for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching by Queen's University. The award, established by Chancellor Emeritus A. Charles Baillie, recognizes high school educators who have made a decisive and formative impact on their students, guiding them towards higher education and academic excellence.
Moffatt was nominated by former Char-Lan student Charlotte Reed, who credited her with being a pivotal influence during her high school years. Reed, now graduating from Queen's University with a degree in Engineering and accepted into Oxford University for her doctoral studies, says Moffatt's emphasis on hands-on learning and innovative and collaborative physics exams prepared her for university-level math and physics, as well as research positions. Moffatt created a classroom environment where students were both supported and challenged. She organized extra opportunities for students, including participating in online math contests and encouraged discussions that promoted a deeper comprehension of theoretical concepts.
"Charlotte is an incredibly brilliant student. There were times where I felt more like a facilitator than a teacher because of her brilliance. Knowing that she remembered me as she graduates from university means a lot," said Moffatt.
Moffatt's plans for the significant monetary award are personal and heartwarming. With retirement on the horizon, she intends to use the funds to travel back to New Zealand, where she began her teaching career.
"Tracey's dedication to her students and her innovative teaching methods have made a significant impact on Char-Lan. Her recognition with the Baillie Award is well-deserved. Her commitment to fostering a love of learning and encouraging academic excellence has set a high standard for educators across the board," said Char-Lan Principal Trevor Wheeler.
The recognition also highlights Moffatt's innovative teaching methods. She has implemented and expanded collaborative learning models, significantly impacting her students' ability to work together and think critically. This approach has benefited so many students who have gone on to pursue higher education, particularly in engineering.
Moffatt will receive her award during Reed's convocation later this month in Kingston, Ontario.
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