Physical and health educators and an entire school in St. James-Assiniboia School Division were recognized for their innovative methods and unwavering commitment to the students of SJASD.
On October 19, the Physical and Health Educators of Manitoba organization hosted its annual PHE Manitoba Awards ceremony at Collège Sturgeon Heights Collegiate. At the event, two SJASD teachers received prestigious honours alongside one SJASD school.
St. James Collegiate Physical Education teacher Ms. Van Aggelen received the Stu Sieme Award, which is presented to a school with an exemplary outdoor education program. St. James Collegiate principal Ms. Steffler presented the award and spoke to the great impact Ms. Van Aggelen has had within the school, referring in part to the creation of the Sustainability Wilderness program, calling it “the house she built.” The program helps students learn how to survive in the wilderness, strengthen their relationships with nature and the land, and allows them to connect with their peers in a new environment. Along with Ms. Van Aggelen to help her accept this award was Mr. Ingram. Mr. Ingram is another teacher who is integral to the delivery of outdoor education at St. James Collegiate. Ms. Van Aggelen is also extremely involved in coaching a variety of teams both at the school and community level and continually demonstrates her passion for providing rich outdoor education opportunities for all of the students at St. James Collegiate.
The PHE Manitoba Early, Middle and Senior Years Award is presented to one physical educator in each respective category who has shown outstanding leadership and dedication to the promotion of physical education in Manitoba. This year, École Robert Browning Physical Education teacher Mr. Vermeylen received the prestigious PHE Manitoba Early Years Award. While Mr. Vermeylen was unable to attend the ceremony as he was at home with his family after the birth of his son earlier in the week, SJASD Physical and Health Education Coordinator Mr. Ross presented the award and shared a few of the many reasons he is such a deserving candidate. He referred to Mr. Vermeylen as a “Master Teacher” describing his teaching methods as engaging, innovative and welcoming to all learners. It is obvious he is passionate about the content he teaches, which in turn, aids students in developing a love for learning as well as a great appreciation for their physical education.
Lastly, Brooklands School earned the Golden Apple Award which honours an outstanding school who has demonstrated a commitment in programming, resources and support of Healthy School initiatives, programs and events. Brooklands School principal Mr. Ferguson-Baird accepted the award alongside 10 of his colleagues who have all played a great role in helping the school meet a number of physical and health-related goals. While the school carries out a wide-array of mental and physical health initiatives, including a breakfast program, an active bike fleet and outdoor learning challenges to name a few, Mr. Ferguson-Baird was most excited to share the improvements in student data with respect to physical development and health at the Kindergarten level. He mentioned how an increase of 7% in physical readiness may seem small but reflects a significant achievement for the staff and students at Brooklands School as physical development plays a key role in a child’s early learning experience, as well as the rest of their lives.
Congratulations to Ms. Van Aggelen, Mr. Vermeylen and Brooklands School on their recognitions this year at the PHE Manitoba Awards. We thank you for your great contributions in helping our students grow, develop and thrive in the area of physical and health education.
