Three B.C. educators have been awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Childhood Education – and all three work at the same centre in New Westminster.
Queen's Park Preschool has announced that three of its educators – Donna Ross, Henda Du Preez and Naho McDonald – have been recognized for their outstanding leadership, exemplary early childhood education practices, and commitment to building the foundation young children need to make the best possible start in life. All three have been awarded the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Childhood Education.
"Receiving the Prime Minister's Award is a tremendous honour, and it reaffirms the importance of early childhood education in shaping our society's future,” Ross said in a news release. “I am deeply grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young children."
According to the Government of Canada website, the Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education have recognized outstanding early childhood educators since 2002, with more than 300 educators honoured to date. Recipients are celebrated for their leadership, exemplary early childhood education practices, and their commitment to help build the foundation children need to make the best possible start in life.
"We're really lucky to have Donna, Henda and Naho on our preschool teaching team. They work together seamlessly,” said Christina Romein, a parent at the preschool and president of the non-profit society. “Donna is excellent at leading and ensuring that everything runs smoothly at the preschool. Henda's calm nature helps her connect effortlessly with students one-on-one. Meanwhile, Naho's abundant energy brings joy as she shares delightful songs and stories with the children."
Du Preez and McDonald have worked at the preschool since 2019, while Ross has been there since 2014.
“The selection process for this esteemed award is rigorous and meticulous,” said a news release from the preschool. “Historically, over 100 volunteers from the education community across Canada assess nominees and evaluate their contributions to early childhood education. The fact that Donna Ross, Henda Du Preez, and Naho McDonald have been chosen for this honour speaks volumes about their exceptional dedication and expertise.”
Queen's Park Preschool states that the three educators’ passion, hard work and dedication have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless children and families.
“Their commitment to nurturing and educating young minds has set them apart as beacons of excellence in the field of childhood education,” said the preschool’s news release.
Queen's Park Preschool, established in 1965, offers a play-based program for preschoolers.
The local trio were among seven educators who received Certificates of Excellence as part of this year’s program. The Prime Minister’s Award program also provided Certificate of Achievement to 13 educators across Canada.
