Receiving the LCSD Excellence in Catholic Education Award for 2022 is École Notre Dame Elementary School Principal Rachel Reid.
Reid is an educator that leads her staff and students with a kind heart, a sense of grace, and unwavering faith. She remains optimistic when times are tough, which offers a sense of comfort and motivation to all of those who rely on her guidance.
"Rachel has a magnanimous vision that lights up the halls and classrooms of her school. Her vision is rooted in lessons from the greatest teacher of all time: Christ. She believes that every child is a gift from God and is worthy of respect and dignity," said LCSD Deputy Superintendent Chantel Axani.
Reid joined Lakeland Catholic as a substitute teacher in 2015, teaching Calm, Religious students, and acting as a Classroom Support Teacher. She became vice principal of École Notre Dame Elementary in 2017 and held the role until her maternity leave in 2019. When she returned in 2021, Reid stepped into the position of principal at the school.
"I feel honoured and blessed to be able to work with students and staff daily. I wholeheartedly know this career was my calling, I want to make sure that every single child and adult that I work with feels love and knows they have someone in their corner who cares for them." Reid said. We often don't know what home life is like for our students and staff, therefore, I made it my mission to treat all with respect, dignity, compassion and be authentic in my actions. As Catholic Christians we are called to be gospel witnesses, and I try to live by that. If everyone I encounter leaves feeling they are valued, important and loved, then I have been successful."
The award is annually presented to an educator who models Catholic values and lifestyle, positively contributes to the development of students and their spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth, and is active in their parish and faith life, among others.
