Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) is thrilled to announce Ardrossan Junior Senior High received one of this year's National Inclusive Education Awards. The award was presented to the school by Inclusion Alberta at its The Future of Inclusive Education Conference in Edmonton on April 8.
Ardrossan Junior Senior High was recognized for the efforts it's made to create a culture of inclusion at the school. Over the years, the school has gone above and beyond to ensure all its students feel welcomed in the classroom, are engaged learners, acknowledged for their unique abilities, and recognized as contributors to their school community.
"A key goal for us at Ardrossan Junior Senior High is to ensure every student reaches their full potential," says Dan Vanderburgh, the principal of Ardrossan Junior Senior High. "Every day, all of us teachers, educational assistants, staff, and our Supports for Students team work diligently to ensure our students are accepted and included unconditionally. It's my sincere hope, parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and the province continue to work together to ensure all students benefit from the same educational opportunities."
Kathy and Dave Gunderson, whose daughter currently attends Ardrossan Junior Senior High, nominated the school for this year's National Inclusive Education Awards. The pair says the school has shown incredible respect and commitment to their daughter and provided the communication and support needed to make a positive impact on her life, their family, and by extension, the larger community.
"The teachers work collaboratively with us to support our daughter, hold her accountable for her learning, and adapt the curriculum as required," wrote the Gundersons in their nomination letter. "The teachers share information as a school team to ensure our daughter is supported in the regular classes, on field trips, and school events with peers."
The National Inclusive Education Awards are organized by the Canadian Association for Community Living and its provincial associations. The awards are handed out annually to recognize teachers, schools, and school divisions that have shown an exemplary commitment to inclusive education. Ardrossan Junior Senior High is one of only five schools in Alberta to receive the award this year.
Congratulations to the amazing staff at Ardrossan Junior Senior High and the EIPS Supports for Students team on receiving this well-deserved award!
