Media Releases

Friday, June 11, 2010

WESTGLEN SCHOOL WINS EMERALD AWARD

Westglen School has been named the winner of a 2010 Emerald Award in the Education - School category by the Alberta Foundation for Environmental Excellence. The school was recognized at the 19th annual Emerald Awards Ceremony last night in Calgary and was represented by teacher Linda Hut and parent Paul Wyminga.

Westglen School's leadership in environmental education, under the guidance of Ms. Hut and the student-driven Earth Patrol, showed incredible initiative and has inspired other schools to take action.

"I get to watch the children and see their appreciation of issues grow and their leadership skills develop. They have a contagious spirit of hope and responsibility for the future," says Linda. "This award will inspire everyone at Westglen to carry on their work for the environment and for the future of the planet."

Paul, who nominated the school, adds, "As a parent and a community member, I appreciate that the message and learning is about living better, making better decisions and being aware of the impact that can happen locally. It is overwhelming learning of the accomplishments the school has had over the 10 years, which has happened one project at a time."

The Alberta Foundation for Environmental Excellence recognizes the outstanding initiative and leadership Albertans demonstrate in the face of environmental challenges and the Emerald Awards were created by the Foundation to celebrate these achievements. This year the Foundation received 102 nominations from which they identified 33 finalists.

M.E. LaZerte School and student Sasiri Bandara were also named finalists in the Education - School category and Youth category, respectively.

For further information, contact:
Jody Lundell, Principal
Westglen School
10950 127 Street
780-454-3449