(Pictured above: Staff members at Central Public School were

recently honoured by Queen's University's Faculty of Education

for providing a fertile training ground for student teachers to

learn their profession.)

(Cornwall) - Central Public School was honoured Thursday by Queen’s University as a place where student teachers can thrive during work placements.

The school was presented with the 2009 Elementary Associate School of the Year Award by representatives of the Queen’s University Faculty of Education. School Principal Kevin Cooper received a commemorative plaque on behalf of the school during a ceremony in the Central gym.  The honour was given based on letters submitted by student teachers who performed their work placements at the school and cited Central as a place where student teachers can enjoy meaningful and rewarding training.

Nadine Thompson, practicum placement assistant with the Queen’s University Faculty of Education, said that Central was selected from among 200 elementary schools in Ontario where Queen’s students were placed to gain practical experience – a key requirement to graduate.

“Our students have found it to be a very welcoming school,” said Thompson. “Staff here are very involved with their students. There is a great deal of collaboration. Staff work to maximize learning and create a safe environment for the students.”

Along with the plaque, Queen’s University made a $300 donation on Central’s behalf to the Upper Canada District School Board Champions for Kids Foundation. The money will be used to help children in need play sports, enjoy the arts, and seek medical or dental care.

Principal Kevin Cooper said he was overwhelmed at the praise his school received from both the Queen’s faculty and the students who served on placement this school year. He also said that hosting students from Queen’s has added value to the educational experience of students at the school.

For more information, please call:

Kevin Cooper

Principal

Central Public School

613-932-0857