Outstanding Service Awards

Dave Edgar is an exceptional educator whose impact on students, colleagues, and the broader school community is profound and enduring. As a Learning Support Teacher at Southwood Public School, Dave exemplifies unwavering belief in students and an unrelenting commitment to helping them succeed.

Dave is relentless in advocating for student success, carefully monitoring progress, adjusting instruction, and celebrating growth with genuine pride. His leadership in evidence based instructional practices has strengthened literacy outcomes and empowered colleagues to make meaningful, data informed decisions that place students at the centre.

Respected and trusted by staff, Dave freely shares his expertise and time. Whether facilitating professional learning, mentoring colleagues, or stepping in wherever support is needed, he does so with humility and professionalism. He brings a “Let’s go get it done” attitude with every initiative.

Dave’s passion for environmental stewardship has shaped the culture of Southwood Public School. He is affectionately known by family and staff as a “tree hugger”. Through school wide initiatives, and hands on learning opportunities, he has inspired a shared sense of responsibility for caring for our environment. His inclusive approach ensures that every student, regardless of need, is welcomed and able to participate meaningfully.

Dave’s enthusiasm for sport and physical activity is infectious, even if his love for the Boston Bruins is questionable. Dave models care, encouragement, and dedication through his involvement in school athletics and daily interactions with students. He is known as a constant and reliable presence, always ready to help, always putting others first, and always leading by example.

Above all, Dave Edgar is a remarkable colleague, mentor, and role model. Southwood Public School and the Greater Essex County District School Board are stronger because of his Outstanding Service.  

The heart of a school is found in the way its people care for one another. At Marlborough Public School that heart beats strongly through the daily work of Jackie Jackson.

 

As a Child and Youth Worker, Jackie greets students each day with warmth and encouragement, making each child feel seen. Her calm presence and genuine care set the tone for a school environment where students feel safe to be themselves and supported through challenges and successes.

 

Jackie has created a space that has become a cornerstone of belonging for many students. Known fondly as Ms. Jackson’s Space, it is a place where friendships are formed, creativity flourishes, and confidence grows. Students may arrive feeling shy, overwhelmed, hungry, or simply in need of connection and Jackie meets them with empathy and respect. Through games, conversations, creativity, and quiet moments of reassurance, she helps students find their footing and discover their strengths.

 

Her impact reaches far beyond emotional support. Jackie ensures that students have access to food, clothing, and essential items, always provided with dignity and kindness. Through initiatives such as her weekly bingo programs, nutrition supports, sports opportunities, and the much loved Marlborough Boutique, she brings joy and inclusion to her school community. Many of these initiatives are sustained through her own time and generosity, reflecting a deep commitment to the wellbeing of students and families.

 

Jackie is equally valued by her colleagues. Staff turn to her for guidance and support knowing her advice comes from experience and a genuine desire to help others succeed. Her presence at school events, field trips, and extracurricular activities demonstrates her belief that showing up matters. Students know she will be there cheering them on, just as staff know they can rely on her steady support.

 

Parents and community members recognize Jackie as a trusted and caring presence who goes above and beyond to support families. Her relationships are built on trust, creating lasting connections that strengthen the entire school community.

 

Jackie Jackson embodies the true spirit of outstanding service. Through kindness and heartfelt commitment, she lifts others up every single day.

 

It is with great pride and appreciation that we recognize Jackie Jackson as a recipient of the Outstanding Service Award. 

Melanie Lowden is the kind of educator whose impact is felt long before her name is ever spoken. She leads with quiet confidence, unwavering kindness, and a deep commitment to students, colleagues, and community. Without seeking recognition or attention, she consistently gives her time and energy to ensure that others can thrive.

 

In the classroom, Melanie is a gifted and dedicated English teacher who supports learners at every level. Her classrooms are places where structure meets warmth and where students feel engaged and supported. Whether guiding students new to high school, challenging International Baccalaureate learners to think more deeply, or helping senior students build confidence for what comes next, Melanie meets each learner where they are and helps them believe in themselves.

 

Beyond her classroom, Melanie is a steady and trusted presence for staff. She is often the first to welcome new colleagues, generously sharing her expertise and her resources. She listens without judgment, offers support without hesitation, and lifts others without ever needing acknowledgment. Her calm reassurance and quiet leadership make challenging moments easier and successes more meaningful.

 

Melanie’s service extends far beyond the school day. She is a driving force behind countless extracurricular programs and leadership initiatives that shape student experiences across the board. Most notably, she plays a central role in the Youth Leadership Camp, working tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the year to create a meaningful experience for hundreds of students from across the board. Her dedication and organization make opportunities possible.

 

As a culture builder, Melanie embodies the values of belonging, service, and shared responsibility. She supports school spirit, student leadership events, athletic competitions, and graduation ceremonies with the same quiet commitment, always showing up and always putting others first.

 

What makes Melanie truly exceptional is her selflessness. She gives without keeping score, leads without standing in front, and serves without expecting anything in return. Many of her contributions go unseen, but their impact is deeply felt by students, staff, and families who know that they are supported because of her.

 

Beloved by students, respected by colleagues, and admired by all who have had the privilege of working alongside her, Melanie Lowden exemplifies what outstanding service truly means.

 

It is fitting that we recognize Melanie Lowden with the Outstanding Service Award, acknowledging a quiet warrior whose steady commitment makes a lasting difference. 

Zack Mattiuz’s impact extends far beyond the walls of his classroom. He is a builder of community, one relationship and one act of service at a time. Zack shows up in the classroom and on the field with purpose and consistency, ensuring that every student feels valued and included. His positive ‘cup is half full’ attitude is one Zack’s greatest strengths.

 

He enriches school life through countless acts of involvement, generously giving his time to coach multiple teams, advocate for student athletes, organize fundraisers to improve access to equipment, and serve as a trusted bridge between school and home through parent council. His efforts have enhanced programs and brought families together, deepening school pride and creating spaces where students feel a true sense of belonging.

 

Zack’s commitment to inclusion is especially evident in the opportunities he creates. By reviving and leading the school choir, he opened a door for students who may not find themselves on a team, offering them a place to perform and to be celebrated. Whether arranging performances, supporting community partnerships, or ensuring students have what they need to participate with confidence, Zack acts with quiet determination and care.

 

His dedication and leadership extend well beyond the school community. As President of the South Windsor Soccer Club, Zack actively encourages and mentors’ young referees and has established a scholarship to support aspiring coaches as they pursue postsecondary education.

 

What makes his service extraordinary is its sincerity. He leads with empathy. Students trust him. Families respect him. Colleagues rely on him. He is a steady presence and a safe and dependable adult whose influence reaches students he may never formally teach, yet profoundly shapes.

 

Zack Mattiuz gives his time and talent to strengthen his school community.

For his leadership and his unwavering commitment to building inclusive and connected school communities, Zack Mattiuz is deserving of the Outstanding Service Award. 

Some educators lead loudly.

 

Others lead by presence — steady, generous, and unmistakably human.

Sash Querbach belongs to the latter.

 

There is a quiet warmth that follows Sash into every space he enters. It is felt in hallways, classrooms, meetings, and moments where someone simply needs to be seen. He does not demand attention, yet attention gathers naturally around him, drawn by his wisdom and unwavering commitment to people.

 

Across years and roles, Sash has remained deeply open‑minded and engaged. He is the educator who continues to grow rather than settle, who welcomes new ideas, new perspectives, and meaningful dialogue. Colleagues describe him as genuine and compassionate — someone who listens carefully, speaks thoughtfully, and supports others without hesitation. Whether offering a quiet word of encouragement or a moment of mentorship, Sash gives his time freely and with purpose.

 

Sash has been described as never flashy, but always reliable.

 

Beyond the classroom, his service unfolds through action rather than announcement. He shows up again and again for students and colleagues. He supports student leadership and school‑wide events with consistency and care. He volunteers his lunches and his after‑school hours to ensure that students feel connected and that school feels like a place of belonging. His presence turns rooms into safe spaces and initiatives into shared purpose.

 

Students feel it most. They feel believed in. They feel encouraged. They feel valued for who they are becoming and for who they already are. Sash sees potential clearly and names it gently, helping students grow their confidence and leadership skills, often without realizing the depth of his influence.

 

When Sash leaves a space, the absence is felt, not because he sought to be central, but because he was. He is a steady force and the beating heart of a community built on respect and care.

 

For his wisdom and his unwavering commitment to others; for the countless ways he strengthens school culture through presence rather than praise; and for the lives he shapes simply by showing up fully and authentically; Sash Querbach is profoundly deserving of the Outstanding Service Award. 

Jennifer Scott’s work reaches far beyond language instruction. As an educator of Multilingual Learners, she builds confidence before competence, ensuring that every student feels valued and capable. She understands that behind every learner is a story, and she honours each one with compassion and unwavering belief.

 

Her classroom is a place of safety and celebration, where growth is noticed and success is made visible. Jennifer lifts her students up in her own space and across the school community, proudly sharing their achievements so that every child knows they matter.

 

Jennifer’s service extends well beyond her classroom walls. She quietly meets essential needs by collecting warm clothing, organizing food supports, and arriving early each day to prepare the school’s snack program. Because of her consistency and care, students begin their day nourished and ready to learn.

 

She is a pillar of her school community. Jennifer gives her time generously by organizing Community Days, supporting school events, coaching cross‑country, welcoming families, and volunteering wherever she is needed. She brings staff, students, and families together with warmth and joy. Her laughter fills the halls, and her presence makes people feel they belong.

 

What sets Jennifer apart is the lasting impact of her actions. Former students return eager to share their journeys, knowing they will still be met with care. Colleagues learn from her and feel better for having worked alongside her. She models excellence and leads with heart.

 

Jennifer Scott gives more than instruction.

She gives nourishment.

She gives belonging.

She gives belief.

 

For her selfless service and her extraordinary impact on students and community alike, Jennifer Scott is profoundly deserving of the Outstanding Service Award. 

From the gym to the field, from the first whistle to the last high-five, there is a presence that defines LaSalle Public School.

 

That presence belongs to Bill Seagris.

 

For more than three decades, Bill Seagris has been a constant and inspiring presence in the lives of students, families, and colleagues. His impact reaches far beyond the gymnasium, shaping a culture of inclusion, teamwork, perseverance, and joy that defines the spirit of LaSalle Public School.

 

As a Physical Education teacher, Bill delivers a primary physical education program that thoughtfully embraces students of all ages and abilities. His classes are energetic and welcoming, creating an environment where every student feels valued and capable. Through his instruction, students learn physical skills, confidence, cooperation, and respect for one another.

 

Bill’s dedication extends well beyond the school day. He coaches multiple teams, convenes and organizes board level sports, and coordinates tournaments that bring students together in meaningful and memorable ways. His commitment to intramurals during and after school ensures that every child has the opportunity to participate and experience the excitement of sport.

 

His impact is so strong that on “Dress Like a Hero Day,” students across every grade proudly came to school dressed as Mr. Seagris.

 

What truly sets Bill apart is the way he supports others. He is the person colleagues turn to for guidance and encouragement. He gives generously of his time and expertise, always willing to help, always ready to listen. To students, he is a mentor and role model who teaches by example through kindness and unwavering belief in their potential. To families, he is a trusted educator who leaves a lasting impression long after students leave the school.

 

Bill Seagris leads with heart and humility. His influence is woven into the daily life of LaSalle Public School and reaches across the broader school community. His legacy is found in confident students, grateful families, and a school culture strengthened by his service.

 

For his extraordinary dedication and his unwavering commitment to children and community, Bill Seagris is truly deserving of the Outstanding Service Award. 

At West Gate Public School, there is a steady presence who makes the building safer, brighter, and kinder. That presence is David Sousa.

 

As custodian, David takes immense pride in his work, arriving early each morning to walk the halls, noticing what needs attention and taking care of it before anyone else has to ask. His dedication ensures that West Gate is clean, well maintained and ready for learning every single day.

 

It is David’s humanity that truly sets him apart. In a school of more than 700 students, he knows countless children by name, greets them warmly, and notices when someone needs a moment of care or reassurance. In the GAINS classroom, he checks in regularly, responds immediately when called, and offers a calm, steady presence in moments that require compassion and discretion. One student even gave him a nickname “Soucie” a name now spoken with affection throughout the class.

 

David brings the same warmth and generosity to staff. He lifts spirits with timely humour and quiet acts of kindness.

When challenges arise, David remains composed and dependable. Whether responding swiftly to urgent clean-ups or managing demanding situations with professionalism and care his work allows the school day to continue smoothly, without added stress. His reliability is deeply trusted and genuinely appreciated by all who work beside him.

 

Beyond the walls of the school, David’s generosity continues. David is growing his hair out again to donate it to support individuals with cancer. These unprompted acts of compassion reflect the character he brings to West Gate each day: selfless, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine care for others.

 

Through his exceptional work ethic and his unwavering commitment to community, David Sousa embodies the spirit of the Outstanding Service Award. West Gate Public School is a better place because of him and it is with great appreciation that we honour his remarkable service.