While an anomalous pandemic-riddled year can teach us many things, the value of partnerships is certainly one of the top lessons. Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) celebrated this year’s Partners in Education event virtually on December 3, 2020. The video featured a congratulatory message from Mayor Don Scott and messages from FMPSD leaders. 

Syncrude Canada was named Large Business Partner of the Year, and Bayzik Oilsands Ltd. was recognized as Small Business Partner of the year - both of which have made very generous donations over the past year to Frank Spragins' food service program for our students                                 

FMPSD Board Chair, Linda Mywaart relayed greetings on behalf of the Board. 

“Our students, over 6000 of them, come to us from many backgrounds, upbringings and locations...and it is a wonderful privilege and responsibility to meet them where they are in their learning. Your partnership impacts our students in their academics, visual and performing arts, athletics, mental health and well-being, language (and much more). Ultimately, you are investing in people. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, staff and students at FMPSD we say thank you to each and every one of you,” remarked Chair Mywaart. 

Superintendent Jennifer Turner thanked all the Partners, who stepped up for the FMPSD family during a “challenging year.”

“Our Partners have continued to reach out, volunteer, make contributions, and looked for ways to enhance educational opportunities for our students, staff and families. The Division could not have overcome this year’s challenges and achieved strong results without the valued support of our donors and sponsors. Your commitment not only strengthens our schools, and the Wood Buffalo region, but beyond. And, we are hopeful you’ll continue to help grow our students, and our community. Thank you everyone.”

Congratulations to this year’s following winners!

• Community Initiative Partner of the Year - Multicultural Association of Wood Buffalo  - ELLA (English Language Learner Assistance) Program
• Council Member Partner of the Year - Philippa Gear - École McTavish Parent Council
• Large Business/Corporation Partner of the Year - Syncrude Canada Ltd
• Medium Business Partner of the Year - AltaML & Cummins Canada ULC
• Small Business Partner of the Year - Bayzik Oilsands - Tyrone Brass
• Media Partner of the Year - Jamie Attfield - snapd Wood Buffalo newspaper
• Promotor Partner of the Year - Carolyn Evancio - Alberta Health Services, Public Health Promotion Facilitator
• Social Profit Partner of the Year - McMurray Métis Local 1935 & Nistawoyou Friendship Centre
• Society Partner of the Year - Jen Hoilund and Christina Gordon Public School Parent Council
• Board Commitment to Excellence - mCloud Technologies