LIMESTONE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Congratulations to 2015-2016 Student Achievers

The Limestone District School Board honoured 14 dedicated and compassionate young people with Limestone Student Achievers Awards for their outstanding achievements of students whose exceptional accomplishments merit recognition beyond the separate categories of awards at the school level. Secondary school recipients will have demonstrated exemplary achievement in at least three of the following categories: the arts, athletics, leadership, and academic standing. The 2016 honorees have certainly made significant contributions and accomplishments throughout their high school careers, both in their school and throughout the broader community. Congratulations to all recipients.

Nick Adams - Sydenham High School

Nick Adams is a true leader, a visionary and an all around excellent young man. He broke two school records in Track and has medalled at KASSAA and EOSSA for both cross country and track. Nick has always been a strong student academically and athletically but it's in other, less recognized ways, that Nick truly shines. He is a modest yet effective leader at Sydenham High School. He is known for taking initiative to seek out areas that need improvement, constructing plans to address these needs and seeing these plans to successful completion. Nick is always the first choice to be the master of ceremonies for school assemblies and events and he does so with wit and charm and a commanding presence. He will happily and effectively be another student's campaign manager in the race for Co-President of Student Council. He does not need to be the centre of attention, but he always wants to be involved. Nick is always looking to fix problems and to help others. He is always working on plans and strategies to help those less fortunate in food drives or fundraising for Syrian Refugees. When some of our students were in an accident this year, Nick was the first one at the hospital offering support in any way he could. Nick is also an integral member of the school's Red Cross team which works to prevent bullying and create a positive school climate. When asked to peer tutor other students he always agrees and is the most patient, clear and empathetic teacher to his fellow students. As a staff we often comment on his positive presence in the school and how he conducts himself with poise and self-respect. Throughout all of these activities and succeeding academically, what is most astounding about Nick is his contagious positive attitude about everything. He is always seen smiling and laughing and taking things in stride. He will be greatly missed at Sydenham and we are all looking forward to what he will become and accomplish as he continues with his education.

Tyler Bark - Queen Elizabeth Collegiate & Vocational Institute

Tyler Bark is a man of few words; in order to fully understand his achievements, you must understand a little about where he was four years ago. Even while battling Lupus and attending various medical appointments, Tyler never allowed his diagnosis to be a reason to miss a class or miss a practice. He used his diagnosis as a motivator to raise awareness of what others were going through, a motivator to become his best basketball self, and a motivator in his studies so that one day he, too could work in the medical field. In the classroom, to say that Tyler pushes himself is an understatement. Tyler is a very enthusiastic learner, who is conscientious and always puts forth 100% in everything he does. He is always looking for new ways to do better and he won't settle until he knows he has produced his best work. This effort has Tyler currently sitting with an 88 average in his Grade 12U courses. We are confident Tyler will continue to push his grades even higher in order to achieve his post-secondary dream of attending Queen's University. When you meet Tyler, one of the first things you notice is his footwear and how it varies day to day to represent his favourite sport: basketball. Tyler has been a member of the QECVI Raiders basketball team his whole high school career, and since Grade 10 has also played for the Kingston Impact Basketball Club. During a summer basketball camp in Grade 9 Tyler endured a serious leg injury, which cost him the ability to play most of his Grade 10 year. This did not stop Tyler; he simply continued to train in other ways. He continued to come to every practice, and he volunteered to work with the girls' teams so that he'd still be learning from his coaches and other players. Once Tyler's injury was healed he made a commitment to increase his cardio workouts and skill development, and he learned how to properly fuel his body. He entered his Grade 11 season stronger than ever. This year, Tyler scored over 500 points during regular season play, and earned a spot on the KASSAA all-star team where he scored 34 of his team's 85 points and led the East to a win. In the school and wider community Tyler is an active member, often involved in raising funds for others. Prior to entering high school, Tyler initiated a fundraiser for a young man with cancer which raised $4500. During his Grade 9 and 10 years Tyler was a part of QECVI's Student Council. In his senior years, he has volunteered as a scorekeeper for volleyball and basketball, supported the Food Sharing program, clothing sort, and has mentored the junior girls' and boys' basketball teams. Outside of school, Tyler has mentored the Impact Under 14 girls basketball team. He's also volunteered to score keep at provincial tournaments, he's provided First Aid assistance at St. Lawrence college events, he's worked a Christmas Bazaar, organized team bottle drives to allow others be able to afford their team uniforms, and helped support a young man with autism in his therapy by organizing a charity basketball game at Queen's University that raised over $1000. Tyler is now involved in planning the prom for his peers to celebrate their senior year.

Dylan Clement - Napanee District Secondary School

Dylan Clement is a Grade 12 student at Napanee District Secondary School.  Dylan possesses all the skills and attributes to be a success in life.  He is hardworking, dedicated, responsible, curious to learn new things and a leader.  Dylan has demonstrated all these traits in many ways at NDSS, but in particular in the area of automotive technology. Dylan is a Gold Medal winner at the skills competition for Auto Service Technology and will travel to Waterloo this spring to represent the Limestone District School Board in the Provincial competition. Dylan is a great ambassador for Skills Canada as he encourages others to participate. In addition to this accomplishment Dylan is an honour roll student at NDSS and has been for his entire high school career.  He will receive his Specialist High Skills Major in Transportation and has completed two Dual Credits. After school hours Dylan has participated in training seminars various suppliers have facilitated for local employers and NDSS students. While Dylan is at home in the auto shop, he has also proven himself to be a strong English student. This past year his teacher was very impressed with Dylan. She says, "Dylan as a student in an English classroom was very committed to doing his personal best.  He was dedicated and completed all tasks assigned without hesitation and often in advance to have someone look over for clarity before submission.  In the course culminating assignment of writing a letter to his future self, Dylan and his genuine voice were revealed throughout the piece.  He brought me to tears with his indubitable kindness and the sense of integrity that was evident as he bared his wholesomeness." As a classmate Dylan is a born leader and a great support to those around him.  He is eager to help and to teach his classmates.  Dylan is a kind and compassionate young man who is a great friend to many.  Dylan is a true and loyal Golden Hawk that we have had the pleasure of watching grow and develop over his four years in our nest.

He is ready to fly now as he heads off to post-secondary to pursue a career in large automotive repair. He has secured a position at a local trucking company that will sponsor his apprenticeship training. Dylan will do great things in this world and we are a better school for having had him as a student.

Bethany Delve - Bayridge Secondary School

In the areas of Arts, Academics, Athletics, and Leadership, Bethany Delve exemplifies outstanding contribution, performance, and achievement. Bethany's engagement in both school and community-based activities has proven to be as impeccable as her dedication and attention to her own studies and work as a leader. At Bayridge Secondary School, Bethany has maintained an average of over 90% in all areas of study, and she has consistently shown exemplary learning skills and work habits in all settings. While continuously demonstrating an ability to be very dedicated and successful in her academics, Bethany has also engaged in a wide variety of extra-curriculars. Bethany has proven herself to be a pivotal contributor to the arts at Bayridge as a BSS Singer and actor in many productions. She has displayed leadership as a member of the Bayridge Student Council (currently in the role of Co-Minister of Night-time Events), helping to lead the Destination Imagination team at regional and global tournaments, as a member of the Interact Club, and as a BSS Mathlete. As an athlete, Bethany has taken part in the BSS Fit Club, and on the field hockey team for the past four years. Beyond the walls of BSS, Bethany has displayed a commitment to ongoing learning and personal growth through her involvement in fiddle and vocal lessons, as a singer in a gospel bluegrass band, as a member of the Kingston Royals indoor field hockey league, and as an Assistant Coordinator with the Summer in the City day camps. Bethany is a most well-rounded young lady who approaches all experiences with pride, dedication, and commitment. She has been an invaluable member of the Bayridge Blazer family, and will no doubt continue to make positive impacts on the world wherever it should take her.

Tarrah Ethier - Kingston Collegiate & Vocational Institute

Curious, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and balanced. These are words that come to mind when staff reflect on KCVI student, Tarrah Ethier. Among the exceptionally strong graduating class of 2016, Tarrah stands out as a star.

Tarrah learns with enthusiasm, asking questions in thoughtful ways and challenging those around her to consider things from a variety of perspectives. Upon graduation, she will have completed the full IB diploma, including ten credits at the 4U level, with marks consistently above 90%. Her creativity and critical thinking skills were highlighted recently when she was awarded a Gold Medal in the category of Human Health Sciences at the 2016 Frontenac Lenox and Addington Science Fair. It is no surprise that this deeply intellectual and scientifically curious young lady has also contributed well over 200 hours volunteering in scientific research labs at Queen's University and Hotel Dieu during her high school career. Beyond the classroom, Tarrah has firmly established herself as an enthusiastic leader through a wide range of activities both at KCVI and in the community. She has involved herself in both the Arts and Athletics at KCVI, and has stepped into leadership roles within the KCVI Athletic Association, Model United Nations Committee, and as the founding member of the KCVI Spanish Club. She pours herself into these activities with her seemingly endless positivity, passion and dedication. Outside of school, Tarrah contributes her talents and skills in the community as both a player, and coach with the Kingston United Soccer League, an avid member of the Kingston Rowing Club, and volunteering over 100 hours of her time in the paediatric ward at KGH. Tarrah, quite simply, is an exceptional young lady. She has left her mark at KCVI by inspiring others to think deeper, push further, and reach higher across all facets of life.

Kara Evans - Queen Elizabeth Collegiate & Vocational Institute

Kara Evans is QECVI's very own Annie Oakley:  an incomparable rifle shooter who has won provincial and national competitions and who is headed to England this summer to compete internationally. She is a loyal and dedicated member of her cadet corps; and an exceptionally clever, accomplished Academic student. And like Annie Oakley, Kara may be small in stature but she is large in spirit, especially when talking about her shooting, and she always hits her mark! Her dream is to one day compete in the Pan-Am Games, and with her talent, skill, commitment and sheer joie-de-vivre, we have no doubt she'll grace the podium one day. Since the age of 10, Kara has been actively involved in Cadets, beginning with the Navy League Cadet Corps for three years, and then the Princess of Wales Own Regiment #2587 Cadet Corps in Kingston. Kara quickly earned her way through the ranks, finishing as Chief Petty Officer, First Class in the Navy Cadets, and now modeling strong leadership skills for many young cadets in her position as Cadet Warrant Officer in the senior ranks.  As the highest-ranking female in this role at the PWOR Cadet Corps, Kara is a terrific role model for young female and male cadets alike.  As Warrant Officer, Kara has many leadership responsibilities, and her dedication to the Cadet Corps and by extension, to the Canadian Armed Forces, is inspiring. Equally inspiring is Kara's dedication to her studies. Since arriving in Grade 9 Kara has pretty much swept every Academic Awards Night, earning top subject prizes in most of her classes and receiving Awards of Excellence. It comes as no surprise, then, that Kara is debating between major scholarship offers from her two top university picks - Queen's and Guelph. Whatever she chooses, Kara ultimately plans on pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine - a long-time goal from which she has never wavered. Due to finding herself the lone student in several of her 4U classes Kara has honed her independent work skills, and has developed a university-level style of learning that is both inquisitive and self-motivated - a style of learning that will surely serve her well next year. Of course, Kara s abilities aren't just academic. She is a talented flute player, and has demonstrated quite a flair for acting. Working with Mr. Bob Cussler, Kara has participated in two of his productions. Kara shines on the stage, transforming herself and addressing challenging, controversial issues along the way. Kara's greatest accomplishment is most certainly as a cadet air rifle marksman.  As said earlier, when she takes aim, she simply never misses! With far too many medals to even fit around her neck, Kara Evans is bound for great things in the shooting world.  Last summer, Kara competed at the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association (DCRA) Canadian Full-bore Rifle Championship in Ottawa. In the DCRA competition, Kara shot in a number of different relays and distances, ranging from 300 to 900 metres, all without using a magnification scope. Despite the challenges, Kara placed 7th, earning her a spot on the Royal Canadian Army Cadet National Rifle Team.

Annie King - La Salle Secondary School

Annie King, a Grade 12 student at La Salle Secondary School, is an outstanding student who excels in academics, athletics and the arts.  She is an incredible leader in the school and school community. Annie has been a true and loyal Black Knight for the last four years.  She has served on Student Council and our Interact Club and this past year has been the Co-President.  She represents La Salle students with compassion, energy and enthusiasm. Annie has been instrumental in organizing various spirit activities and events for La Salle students. She has been involved in leadership camp for four years and has helped with many Grade 8 transition events. Annie is a skilled athlete, participating in hockey, soccer, cross country, basketball and skiing. She is a natural leader on all of these teams.  Annie inspires her team mates with her energy, enthusiasm and humour. She never forgets the big picture; wins with style and loses with grace. Annie has gone to OFSAA twice with her basketball team and won an OFSAA gold skiing medal this year in the team slalom event. This is an amazing accomplishment. Annie is active in the community as well.  She has organized many events over her four years at La Salle that have given back to the community and local charities. Further, Annie actively uses her leadership skills and passion to make this world a better place.  Annie was intensely involved in planning and implementing a service trip to Nicaragua to teach impoverished children literacy skills. Annie is involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award certification program, and she has completed the Bronze, Silver and Gold certifications which is an outstanding accomplishment. Annie also excels in the arts and has been involved in many visual art courses at La Salle and has achieved the highest mark.  She has participated in our school plays and has organized and participated in many school and community music fundraisers. Annie volunteers three hours once a week to teach music to eight music students. An important distinction that sets Annie apart as a student is her genuine love of learning.  Her success is a direct result of the intrinsic value she places on the importance of learning and educating herself and others.  Not only does she want to know the curriculum, she also wants to understand the value of information in relation to her own life and the lives of those around her.  As a 21st century learner this quality is invaluable.

Elizabeth McAuley - Ernestown Secondary School

Elizabeth McAuley is an extremely talented individual who excels academically and contributes positively to the school environment. She displays a great work ethic and commitment to her academics, athletics and most of all community involvement. Elizabeth demonstrates superior academic ability, maintaining over a 90% average throughout her high school career. Her hard work and dedication has earned her many academic awards including subject awards for highest achievement in multiple subject areas. Last fall she won the Royal Military Book Award for academic excellence, athletics and leadership and the Amherstview Lions Club Citizenship Award for academic excellence and community leadership. Elizabeth has been an active member of Student Council since her Grade 9 year. Currently she is one of the school's co-presidents. By extension she is part of the board-wide Inter-School Council and is also serving as a Student Trustee for the Limestone District School Board for this academic year. Additionally, she is participating at the provincial level on the Ontario Student Trustees' Association (OSTA- AECO). Along with her role as Public Board Council Eastern Representative, Elizabeth has taken on a positron as a Data and Research Committee Member. Elizabeth has also been an active member of the Ernestown athletic department, representing our school on nine different teams. Her love of sport is evident as she is also an active member in the community, playing on local softball and hockey teams. Elizabeth's enthusiastic attitude is infectious and makes her a positive role model within the school and community. In addition to Elizabeth's commitments at Ernestown, she is an integral member of the community. Elizabeth has volunteered over 380 hours at a local hospital, and for the past two summers was the Coordinator of the hospital's Summer Youth Volunteers. Elizabeth is an extremely professional individual who has incredible time management skills. Described by Ernestown staff as conscientious, driven and detail oriented, Elizabeth is an exceptional student who displays excellent work habits. She has strong leadership skills and displays these skills both inside and outside of school. To date, Elizabeth has accomplished many great things and without question she will continue to exceed expectations as she moves onto other endeavors in her life.

Brendan Steele - Frontenac Secondary School

As a student at Frontenac Secondary School, Brendan Steele has exhibited many qualities that exemplify a Limestone Student Achiever. Brendan's positive attitude and presence at FSS is that of someone who is mature and wise beyond his years. This degree of maturity is demonstrated in his ability to lead and contribute to an extensive variety of activities over his high school career. In particular, he has captained both basketball and football teams, leading them to championships locally, regionally and provincially. As well, he has won numerous awards (Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year and Top Male Junior Athlete) during his tenure as a student athlete at FSS. Throughout these experiences, he maintains grace under pressure and manages to rally others to perform during championship moments.

In addition to his presence on the field and court, and as evidence of his leadership and the transferability of his skills, last year he accepted a role in FSS's production of High School Musical'. It was in this role that Brendan demonstrated his willingness to challenge himself to work outside his comfort zone and his ability to do so with grace, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude. Furthermore, Brendan's commitment to the development of others is shown in the time he volunteers coaching and training others. He has coached numerous junior sports teams and organizes a regional 3-on-3 basketball tournament that attracts over 200 participants each year. Because Brendan is empathetic and genuine, he is a positive role model for his peers and the students he supports through these programs. In the classroom, Brendan has maintained a high academic average by achieving the honour roll throughout his high school career. He is currently maintaining an average of 90% in a wide range of Grade 12 university subjects. Not only is Brandon a natural classroom leader with a positive approach to learning, he is also sensitive to the needs of others. These skills, along with Brendan's ability to achieve in such diverse learning environments, are a testament to his strengths as a learner. As a result of his drive for continuous improvement and respect for his peers, Brendan has made a positive impact on students, teammates, coaches and teachers at Frontenac Secondary School. It is these qualities along with his leadership skills that will serve him well as he graduates from high school and moves on to the next stage in his life.

Riley Teal - Granite Ridge Education Centre

You have all heard, "It's a bird. It's a plane. No, it's Superman!" Let us introduce you to Granite Ridge Education Centre's Superman. His name is Riley Teal and although he cannot fly, his personal qualities make him heroic to a number of people in the classroom, on the court or field, and in the community. Academically speaking, Riley excels in all subject areas. His strong work ethic propels him to the front of the class. Like Clarke Kent, his demeanour in class may seem reserved and quiet, but do not let his mild manner mislead you as he possesses superior learning skills. Riley is very diligent with his work. He takes initiative in what he is doing and is very thorough in all of his assignments. He may not be able to leap buildings in a single bound, but he did complete an entire week's worth of math homework in Grade 9 in one single night. Riley sets an extremely high standard for other students in his Grade. When receiving their results for the OSSLT, his classmates would ask, "Was I close to Riley?". This young man has received numerous subject awards and was the recipient of the proficiency trophy in Grade 9, 10 and 11: Riley has his sights set on attaining this for Grade 12 as well. Riley is conscientious, and a creative problem-solver.  He can work in any group and can bind any team. The reference to a superhero is not accidental. A spectator can easily spot Riley on the court as he wears his trademark superman socks during the volleyball and basketball games. Given the opportunity, he would wear them during soccer, track and hardball games as he is actively involved in all aspects of athletics. When looking for Riley at lunch or after school, one only needs to go to the gymnasium or the playing fields. Last year, he organized three-pitch softball intramurals at lunch for the secondary students. For each team, he is a dedicated and competitive player while respecting the rules and players of the game. He is extremely coachable, winning four coach's awards during his three years as a Gryphon. He leads by example on the court and on the field. His leadership skills extend beyond athletics and encompass the entire school and community. Riley is an active and dedicated member of the District #4 Recreation Committee and a dependable participant/volunteer for the Relay for Life. He has submitted over 200 community volunteer hours. Like Superman, community members and the staff and students of Granite Ridge Education Centre can always depend on Riley to be the person who will come through to save the day.

Joel Tod - Kingston Collegiate & Vocational Institute

Joel Tod is one of those rare finds; the consummate academic, talented craftsman, athlete, and leader extraordinaire. He is a student who pulls off top grades across all subjects, and explores expanded opportunities, all while devoting countless hours to his truest passion; extra-curricular athletic pursuits. Joel spent three of his high school years taking drum lessons at a private music school, but it is his work through the medium of construction where his artistic creativity really shines. The guitar that Joel built during his semester in the Guitar Building Focus program will be featured in an upcoming issue of the Lee Valley tools catalogue. Additionally, in both 2015 and 2016, Joel received medals for his craftsmanship in Cabinet Making at the LDSB Skills Competition, and he will be representing Limestone at the Provincial competition in Kitchener this May. His careful attention to detail, and sophisticated problem solving abilities have made him a dream combination in the shop. But it isn't his craftsmanship that Joel is best known for. Joel is an athlete. More than that, Joel is a coach's dream. He has been a three season athlete throughout his years at KCVI, while also devoting countless hours to the Pegasus Volleyball Club outside of school. Joel has been recognized twice as Male Athlete of the Year for his Grade, but his more significant impact has come from outstanding off-court leadership within both the school and community. Whether volunteering to coach a Grade 7 /8 Volleyball team, being captain of the KCVI Hockey team, or acting as Co-Chair of Athletic Association, one thing is always true: Joel leads. He is at his best when faced with a challenge, and effectively leads by his dedication, and extraordinary example. He is kind, driven, and inspiring. He gives us great hope in the selfless initiative of the next generation. Next year, Joel will follow his dream to study engineering at Queen's University. How perfect to choose a pathway that demands intellect, creativity, leadership and effective teamwork. We have no doubt that Joel will continue to do great things long after he leaves his lasting footprint on KCVI.

Andre Tryon - North Addington Education Centre

At North Addington Education Centre, we are fortunate enough to watch as small children grow into capable young adults prepared to face the future. Andre Tryon is a wonderful example of our good fortune. If there is something happening at NAEC, you can expect to find Andre working behind the scenes or upfront directing the action. As a leader and a role model, Andre's experiences are far-reaching literally. Last year, Andre became interested in an exchange with a student from Italy. Andre had to take an extra course load last year to ensure he would graduate this year; he did this with no reservation. While Illya visited Canada, Andre was a wonderful ambassador, and while on exchange, Andre shared his experiences in a weekly on-line forum with our Writers' Craft class this became a valuable learning experience for everyone. In the area of athletics, Andre has not only shown himself as a skilled and recognized hockey player outside of school, he is also a hard-working, capable athlete on the volleyball court where, this year, he served as our captain. In addition to his own skills, he is committed to helping provide athletic opportunities for others. Andre helps organize a weekly volleyball evening so students can be active all year, and led a lunchtime program aimed at developing athletes in the elementary part of our school. Oftentimes, Andre would play alongside our young athletes as he modelled good sportsmanship, a positive attitude and a genuine commitment to having fun. In addition to his commitment to athletics, Andre is also committed to our school as a whole. This year, Andre is Co-President of our Students' Council; last year he was the Council's Vice President. Andre has been an integral part of the council as he has organized student activities and charity events, as well as activities to showcase our school in the community. Andre often makes us wonder how he finds time and energy for everything. His work with our local volunteer fire department has led him to participate in numerous courses and certifications. This, in addition to school, athletics and a part-time job make Andre a very busy young man. Andre's efforts are not limited to helping others. He has maintained a high academic average throughout high school and has been recognized with numerous proficiency awards. Andre has also participated in the Limestone Skills Competition. His gold medal win in Kingston allowed him to represent Limestone at the provincial level. The scope of his abilities is almost limitless.

Polly van Herpt - Loyalist Collegiate & Vocational Institute

Polly van Herpt may be well known around the Board table for her contributions as a student trustee, but you may not know her numerous other accomplishments in academics, athletics and extra-curricular activities. During her time at Loyalist Collegiate & Vocational Institute, Polly has been a consistent leader, holding various positions in the student government, Ecclesia. This led to her term as Co-President where she worked with other student leaders to organize events and encourage community involvement. She has been Co-Chair of the Board's Inter-School Council, which serves to represent the diverse student bodies of nine secondary schools within the district. In this role, she helped organize the first-ever Limestone Student Leadership Conference focusing on mental health and equity, and also helped lead various Free the Children fundraisers and an annual food drive to benefit the Partners in Mission Food Bank. Polly has participated in several extra-curricular activities including as a member of the cross-country team and the field hockey team, where she served one season as co-captain and received a Lancer award in 2015 for her team leadership. Despite her lack of technical experience, she volunteered as a member of the behind-the-scenes technology crew at LC which supports school plays, assemblies and coffee houses. Polly was selected as a Torch Award recipient for her involvement in the Tech Crew in 2012 recognizing her dedication, improvement and enthusiasm. During her time at LC, Polly also served as coordinator of the LCVI Road Race, a Link Crew Leader and an Athena Fellowship Member. While much of her volunteer work is school-based, Polly has also served as a Board member of the Voices Opportunities Choices & Employment Club. She was also fortunate to be chosen by a local artist to be mentored for the Limestone Learning Foundation's 2013 Crystal Ball Gala where she collaborated in the creation of a painting, which was auctioned to benefit the foundation. In the spring of 2015, Polly spent four days in Nunavut as one of 25 students from southern Canada for the Arctic Youth Ambassador Forum. Together, students brainstormed ideas to solve some of the most pressing issues of the North, such as education, health care and food security.

Polly's leadership at LC has been recognized previously with the Junior Lancer Leadership Award in 2013 and the Principal's Leadership Award in 2015. One of Polly's most significant accomplishments is her work as a two-term Student Trustee with the Limestone District School Board. Through her work as urban Trustee, she helps represent the voice of 20,000. She has served as the Eastern Region Representative of the Public Board Council for the Ontario Student Trustee Association and this year was elected as Public Board Council President. In both roles she has helped raise and discuss students' best interests and bettering the quality of public education.

Kieran Ward - Frontenac Secondary School

Kieran Ward is described as a fierce competitor and talented athlete across no less than four different sports. Kieran is also described as thoughtful, engaging, and keenly aware of what it means to be a leader. She was the recipient of the RMC Club of Canada award in Grade 11 for exhibiting all-round leadership in academics, athletics and other school activities. Kieran is also active in her community, accumulating more than 120 hours of volunteer work. As an athlete, Kieran has represented the school exceptionally well. As an integral member of the hockey team, Kieran has demonstrated strong leadership abilities and has worn a letter on her jersey every year she has played high school hockey, including this season when her teammates voted her team captain. In addition to hockey, Kieran has been a member of the varsity basketball, lacrosse, and rugby teams, and she has been a captain for rugby and basketball. While Kieran is a gifted athlete and has achieved success at many different levels, her greatest accomplishments have been in the classroom. Kieran is an exceptional student. Her strengths are significant and are not limited to just one subject area. Annually, Kieran finishes with an academic average in the top three for her entire Grade. She excels in all facets of her courses, writing, problem solving, group leadership, public speaking, and class discussions. Consistently, Kieran exceeds assignment and overall course expectations, and she finishes with marks in the mid-nineties with few exceptions. Her teachers say that her character and humility balanced with her extraordinary work ethic allow her to be an incredibly positive influence in her classes. To compliment her academic direction, Kieran is also a candidate for a Specialist High Skills Major in Health and Wellness. Finally, Kieran is an enthusiastic, intelligent leader. She has an open leadership style and has awareness and understanding of others feelings and needs. She has served for three years on Students' Council and is an excellent role model in terms of her commitment to student involvement. She has been a strong leader for Spirit events, and currently as the Grade 12 representative, she is also a leader for Olympiad, a school wide event, and leader of Future Falcons Day, for students from Frontenac feeder schools. Kieran Ward is that rare student whose performance is exemplary across the curriculum and in extracurricular endeavours. Her leadership, her character, her humility, her intelligence, and her extraordinary work ethic make Kieran deserving of recognition.