Anita MacDougall, a teacher at Emily Carr Public School, has received the
National Award for Teaching Excellence in Physical and Health Education. She is one of a dozen educators across the country to receive this award by Physical and Health Education (PHE) Canada.
The PHE Canada National Award for Teaching Excellence in Physical and Health Education honours Canadian teachers at the elementary, middle or secondary levels, who have an exceptional ability to motivate students to engage meaningfully in their journey through physical and/or health literacy with thoughtful and inspiring teaching practices, exemplifying high quality Physical and/or Health Education in Canada.
MacDougall is thrilled to have received this award and says it is a reflection of the colleagues she works with at Emily Carr PS.
“Receiving this award has been such a humbling experience and an important reminder that none of us do anything in isolation,” she says. “As educators, we can strive to improve ourselves, our programs and practice, but can only reach our goals when we're supported by others and we take the time to build relationships. I want to thank the staff, families and students that have advocated for our program at Emily Carr and for quality physical education with their words and their actions. I couldn't be more grateful for the experiences and opportunities I've had during my career and the inspiring people that have taught me so much. It takes a village, and I can't wait to continue to work toward shared goals and visions.”
According to a nomination filed supporting MacDougall: “Anita is a dedicated and inspiring Physical Education teacher. Her career has spanned over 20 years and she is currently the lead PE teacher at Emily Carr PS in Oakville, Ontario where she has worked as a teacher, coach, role model, and leader for over 14 years. Her program embodies what quality Physical and Health Education ‘looks like, sounds like, and feels like’ for all her students as well as the staff who work alongside her and watch her weave her magic during her daily lesson delivery.
“Professionally, Anita ensures that her assessment practices are current and ongoing and reflective of her programming. Her passion for including student voice and choice is respected and valued by her students who appreciate the opportunities to be collaborative and ‘heard’ in their learning journey. Anita’s inclusive approach ensures that all the needs of her students are met physically, socially and emotionally and she is a steadfast and tireless advocate for what is best for students and putting them first.”
This is the second year in a row an HDSB educator has received this award. In 2023,
Milena Trojanovic was one of nine recipients of the PHE award.
