About the Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence
The Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence recognize the efforts of outstanding teachers in all disciplines who provide students with the tools to become good citizens, to develop and thrive as individuals, and to contribute to Canada's growth, prosperity and well-being.
The education stakeholders from across Canada who make up the national and regional selection committees look for evidence that teachers have achieved outstanding results with students, inspired them to learn and continue learning, and equipped them with the skills and attitudes they need to succeed in our changing society and knowledge-based economy. Specifically, they recognize nominees who have excelled in the following areas:
- innovative and exemplary teaching practices
- student skills development
- student interest and participation
- student achievement and performance
- teacher commitment and leadership.
Teachers are eligible for two awards: the Certificate of Excellence and the Certificate of Achievement. All recipients receive a certificate and pin, along with a letter from the Prime Minister. Each recipient's school receives cash awards to be used for educational purposes, such as professional development or equipment, and a certificate recognizing their support of and contribution to the teacher's achievement.
Fifteen Certificate of Excellence recipients travel to Ottawa for four days of tours, best practice sessions and a ceremony at which they receive their award certificates. Cabinet ministers or members of Parliament are invited to participate in local events to honour Certificate of Achievement recipients in their communities.
For more information about the program, send an email or call 1 800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232).
The Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence
Industry Canada
Jean Edmonds Building, Tower North
300 Slater Street, Room 1882D
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0C8