SIMCOE MUSKOKA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
St. Peter's Teacher Honoured with Educator Excellence Award

Some students walk into a new school carrying more than a backpack they carry a new language, a new culture, and the hope that they'll find a place to belong. At St. Peter's Catholic Secondary School, educator Manon Heran makes sure that hope is met with support, encouragement, and community. This month, that work was recognized county-wide.

On November 14th, Manon received the Educator Excellence Award at the County of Simcoe's annual Newcomer Recognition Awards. The award highlights educators who champion multiculturalism through curriculum, relationships, school culture, and leadership. Manon was nominated by Making Change, a community organization that has partnered closely with her and witnessed the impact of her leadership with students.

At St. Peter's, Manon makes it a priority to ensure newcomer students feel welcomed and heard from the moment they arrive. She supports the Diverse Voices group and leads school-wide initiatives for Black History Month, always creating opportunities for students to share their cultures, stories, and strengths. Her work is grounded in relationships and a belief that every student has a voice worth listening to.

For Manon, the recognition is deeply meaningful.

"Receiving an award for sharing my passion with others is not only humbling, but also inspires me to keep collaborating Working with newcomers and ensuring they each have a voice and a sense of belonging are aligned with my values as a Catholic educator."

Her approach is shaped by her own family story, raised by immigrant parents, an experience that gave her a deep understanding of honouring heritage while embracing new cultures.

From the perspective of Making Change, this recognition couldn't be more deserved.

"Manon consistently fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where newcomer and racialized students feel seen, valued, and supported as they adapt to a new community. She removes barriers to participation, builds cultural understanding, and connects students to opportunities that help them grow as leaders. Her commitment goes far beyond academics she makes sure every student has the confidence and sense of belonging they need to thrive," said Laura LaChapelle, Program Director at Making Change.

Manon is quick to credit the community around her St. Peter's, the board, Making Change, the County of Simcoe, and especially the students who lead with courage and creativity. Her example reminds us that Catholic education is at its best when it lifts others up when every student feels like they belong and have something valuable to contribute.

Her work shows what Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board's school year theme, Be the Light, looks like in action: actively listening, empowering young leaders, and celebrating the full richness each student brings to our school communities.