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Every week, we celebrate SMCDSB staff members who have been recognized by a parent, student, or colleague.
This week, we are celebrating Kathleen McLean, a
teacher at Monsignor Clair Catholic School. Kathleen was nominated by a colleague who said:
“Mrs. McLean is an exemplary community builder as well as an exemplary teacher and well-loved colleague. She models our Catholic virtues through her acts of service, and compassion, from organising food drives to support families in need, to serving as an active staff representative on our catholic school community council, and our joint health and safety committee, to organising enrichment activities such as field trips, inviting guest speakers for her own, and many other classes in the school. Her effective implementation of evidence-based early literacy strategies over the past few years has yielded strong improvements among students, while her instilling a sense of responsibility in her students results in them respectfully contributing to maintaining a clean, orderly classroom, and learning to be respectful members of our school community. Mrs. McLean’s quiet leadership is greatly appreciated!”
This week, we are also celebrating Sarah Geer, a teacher at Monsignor Michael O’Leary Catholic School. Sarah was nominated by a colleague who said:
“MMO School Staff would like to recognize Sarah Geer for her outstanding contributions to our school this fall. Sarah has stepped up as a natural leader among our staff, giving countless hours and thoughtful energy to support all aspects of school life. She has taken on the leadership of our school choir, not only preparing students for performances but also securing opportunities for them to showcase their talents in community events during the Christmas season, bringing well-deserved recognition to our students in the local media. She spearheaded our school Christmas Concert, coordinating music, actors, and props with tireless attention to detail to ensure a memorable and seamless event for our students and families. To top it off, she thoughtfully organized the staff holiday gathering, fostering camaraderie, school spirit, and a sense of belonging among our team.
Beyond performances, Sarah has contributed to our broader school community by organizing Soctober as part of our Thanksgiving giving initiative. In the classroom, Sarah graciously hosted a university teaching candidate and also shared her expertise in primary literacy instruction by running a seminar at our Board Symposium, supporting colleagues, and spreading best practices in teaching.
Through her leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff, Sarah has truly been a guiding light in our school this fall!”
Last but certainly not least, we are also celebrating Phil
Lidow, an ICT technician at the Catholic Education Centre (CEC). Phil was nominated by a colleague who said:
“Phil has and continues to go above and beyond, no matter the circumstances. Hearing him on the phone always puts a smile on our faces — he has these fun one-liners that keep things lighthearted while still remaining professional. He has a great way of making even the most technical topics easy to understand, which is incredibly appreciated. His positive attitude, clear communication, and willingness to help truly set him apart and make every interaction a great experience.”
We would like to thank Kathleen, Sarah, and Phil for their commitment to Catholic education at our board.