Each year, the TDSB Excellence Awards shine a light on the extraordinary efforts of staff across the system. These awards recognize those who go above and beyond in their roles to support students, colleagues, families, and school communities. On June 3, that spirit of excellence was on full display as staff, families, and supporters gathered at Northview Heights Secondary School to honour this year’s recipients.
From classrooms to cafeterias, from central departments to school offices, staff at the Toronto District School Board play a vital role in helping students belong, achieve, and thrive. The 2025 Excellence Awards recipients exemplify the dedication, creativity, and collaborative spirit that define our system.
More than 165 nominations were submitted this year, and each nomination told a story of leadership, innovation, compassion, and commitment. We thank everyone who took the time to submit a nomination and the selection committee who took the time to review nominations, as these actions are an important part of building a culture where people feel seen and valued for the impactful work they do.
Making a Difference
“The Excellence Awards are an opportunity to recognize dedicated TDSB employees who go above and beyond,” said Director of Education Clayton La Touche. “This year’s recipients have made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, partners, and the broader community. Thank you for your continued leadership and your extraordinary contributions to the TDSB.”
“At the TDSB, Trustees are proud to work alongside staff who lead with care, courage, and integrity,” said Chair of the Board Neethan Shan. “The Excellence Awards are a celebration of the many ways that staff create inclusive and inspiring learning environments, support one another, and contribute to student success in every corner of the system.”
As we celebrate this year’s recipients, we also recognize the countless acts of excellence happening across the TDSB each day. Thank you to all staff for your commitment to public education and to making a difference in the lives of students and families.
The 2025 TDSB Excellence Award Recipients
Below is the list of this year’s recipients by category, along with a brief summary of their outstanding contributions. The Excellence Awards criteria align with the shared system priorities of the TDSB community. The nomination categories reflect our focus on ensuring all students can achieve, belong, and thrive in revitalized learning environments – all underscored by our foundational commitment to equity and to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
Student Achievement & Engagement Category
Jana Leggett
Speech Language Pathology – Transforms language instruction and literacy by leading collaborative, inclusive efforts that engage educators, specialists, and families.
Tobie Loukes
Kâpapâmahchakwêw - Wandering Spirit School – Enriches student identity and learning by integrating Indigenous arts and culturally responsive curricula that celebrate Indigenous knowledge.
Enhancing Belonging & Wellbeing Category
Shannon Gibney
Seneca School – Enhances family and school connections for students with complex needs by providing inclusive resources and culturally sensitive engagement.
Debbie Grounds
George Webster Elementary School – Cultivates student belonging and life skills through inclusive initiatives that transform school culture and empower student voices.
Keith Hoare
Thistletown Collegiate Institute – Champions food security and sustainability initiatives that nourish and empower the school community.
Angela Kinghan
Cornell Junior Public School – Builds school spirit and inclusion through student leadership, cultural celebration, and community engagement.
Jennifer Torkos
Taylor Creek Public School – Advocates and implements support that ensures students with special needs feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Combatting Hate & Racism Category
Kulsoom Anwer
Westview Centennial Secondary School – Advances equity by developing strategies and resources that affirm Muslim identities and combat Islamophobia, empowering students and communities across the TDSB.
Saraya Elwin
Downsview Secondary School – Fosters equity and inclusion by mentoring educators and creating safe, empowering spaces that promote student well-being and social justice.
Rukiya Mohamed
Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement – Strengthens anti-racism efforts through innovative programs and partnerships that empower educators, students, and families to build inclusive learning environments.
Delivering Operational Excellence Category
Anthony Knight
Mobile & Web Development – Creates inclusive, equity-centered experiential learning programs that equip students with entrepreneurship and tech skills.
Ehsan Rahman
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Jesse Pawinicz
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Rennaldo Javier
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.
Roger Rodriguez
The Grove Community School & Alexander Muir/Gladstone Ave Junior and Senior Public School – Fosters welcoming, well-maintained school environments while actively supporting student engagement beyond their duties.