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TDSB Excellence Awards

 Congratulations to the 2025 TDSB Excellence Awards Recipients!

Photo of 2025 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
Jana Leggett

Speech Language Pathology – Transforms language instruction and literacy by leading collaborative, inclusive efforts that engage educators, specialists, and families.

Tobie Loukes
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
Shannon Gibney
Seneca School – Enhances family and school connections for students with complex needs by providing inclusive resources and culturally sensitive engagement.
Debbie Grounds
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
Keith Hoare
Thistletown Collegiate Institute – Champions food security and sustainability initiatives that nourish and empower the school community.
Angela Kinghan
Angela Kinghan
Cornell Junior Public School – Builds school spirit and inclusion through student leadership, cultural celebration, and community engagement.
Jennifer Torkos
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
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
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
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
Anthony Knight
Mobile & Web Development – Creates inclusive, equity-centered experiential learning programs that equip students with entrepreneurship and tech skills.
Ehsan Rahman
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
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
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
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.