When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau honours 72 teachers across Canada for teaching excellence, a Leamington teacher will be among them.
Butch Rickeard teaches grade nine to 12 history, law, individual - society, and physical education at the Public Alternative Secondary School, also known as P.A.S.S., in Leamington.
He and 16 other educators will receive national recognition when they are honoured with the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence, Certificate of Excellence in a ceremony at Chateau Laurier in Ottawa.
"Educators play a foundational role in our children's lives and help them grow into thriving adults," said Trudeau. "During my time as a teacher, I met so many outstanding educators who dedicate their lives to inspiring the next generation of leaders."
Rickeard's biography, published on the federal government's website, said he strives to make subject matter real for his students by simulating events and situations in the classroom. That includes setting up mock trials to teach court proceedings and convoy simulations to explain military conflict dynamics. He recently created the Oak Street Social Justice Legacy Project, which connects students with local social justice leaders.
The Prime Minister's Awards have honoured more than 2,100 educators across Canada. Recipients are chosen based on a two-tiered selection process. This year there were 150 nominees.
Following Monday's celebration, the nomination period for the 2023 awards will open.
