The Keewatin Patricia District School Board was awarded one of this year's Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities Community Partner Awards for its extremely successful work with the Charity over the past three years. The Board was represented in Toronto on Friday, May 13th at the Canadian Tire Corporate Head Offices by Director of Education Sean Monteith, who was also asked to address the Annual Recognition Meeting about the unique and impactful relationship between the KPDSB and Jumpstart.
Approximately 1,500 students across Northwestern Ontario benefit directly in KPDSB schools through the Board's incredibly strong Hockey Canada Skills Academy program, swimming programs, athletic and outdoor physical programs, and equine horseback therapy program. .
The Community Partner Award recognizes extraordinary contributions from Jumpstart's Community Partners. Jumpstart's success depends largely on its committed Community Partners to help identify, assist and disburse funding for families in need. The KPDSB was recognized along with two other Community Partners at this year's Jumpstart Annual Recognition Meeting including the City of Ottawa and the Township of Uxbridge.
In his comments, Monteith acknowledged that from an idea three years ago, to today, it was particularly gratifying to not just win the prestigious award, but more importantly to celebrate the direct impact the work had on kids: "By providing equipment, resources and transportation supports to students, we have noticed a direct link to improved attendance, self-esteem, and confidence. If we can get the kids into the school, we can make a difference, and with that an opportunity for children to see value in their lives, to graduate. I want to thank Scott Urquhart, the Board's Student Success Leader for his tireless work in the interests of leveling the field for all kids through the work with Jumpstart."
Dave Penney, KPDSB Chair of the Board of Trustees, added "Our relationship with Jumpstart has benefited numerous students and their families across our Board area. We as a Board of Trustees are extremely proud of our partnership with Jumpstart and all that we have been able to accomplish together for our students."
