A educator from Hillcrest Elementary School in Owen Sound is being honoured with the Outstanding Service Award for the Western Region for her transformative work in environmental education, reconciliation, and student voice.
Teacher Edie Duncan has been selected as the 2026 recipient by the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA).
OPSBA says this prestigious award is presented annually to recognize one school board staff and/or volunteers from each region that makes a priority to continue OPSBA’s main objectives in advocacy, inclusion, equity, sustainability, and student well-being.
OPSBA cited several initiatives that Edie has led over the years, including land-based learning projects, such as maple syrup tapping, sustainability programs like Green Bin composting, and integrating Ojibway language and culture into daily classroom routines.
“I remember a field trip to her parents’ apple orchard in Neyaashiinigmiing where we were able to press apples with her dad and taste apple cider,” says Chair Jane Thomson, whose own daughter had Edie in the second grade. “Ms. Duncan seamlessly shared Indigenous knowledge 21 years ago and continues to do so today. So many students have benefited from having you as their teacher.”