Supplying Greater Victoria teachers and students with materials to do their work is something to which Staples is quite accustomed.
So when the idea came up of working with Black Press on a program designed to honour the work done by grade school teachers, it was a natural fit, says Carlo Pellegrino, Staples’ district manager for Western Canada.
“Really, for us, this was a great way to recognize people who are going above and beyond for children in our community,” he says. “We’re extremely proud to recognize teachers and those who make a difference.”
Staples’ Tolmie Avenue store hosted the presentations to the three winners of customized plaques and special gifts provided by the company.
Pellegrino was thrilled at not only the turnout of supporters for the event, but the reaction from the winners in each of the three grade categories.
“It was an electric night, especially for the three teachers,” he says. “The pride was evident in what they said and how they carried themselves.”
Harmen Berghuis is general manager for Staples’ School Tools program, which works with parent advisory councils to assemble complete school supplies packages for students. He also appreciates the opportunity for teachers to receive heartfelt recognition.
Parents and current and former students nominated teachers online, through Black Press’ Greater Victoria community news media website, vicnews.com.
“I think the average person underestimates the time and dedication the teachers give our kids,” Berghuis says. “For something like this to offer a platform for parents in the know to express how much they appreciate teachers, it’s really cool to be a part of that.”
ddescoteau@vicnews.com