Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence

By Joel Ceausu
The Suburban

Villa Maria High School teacher André Cholmsky is the recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in recognition of his outstanding career.

This national recognition presented by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is awarded to just two teachers in Quebec and is the highest distinction awarded to Canadian educators. “Villa Maria’s entire team is delighted that André’s work and commitment to students have been recognized,” said Villa Maria Director General Marie Anna Bacchi. “From the time he first arrived at Villa Maria in 1998, André has been the cornerstone of the science and mathematics departments, inspiring countless students with his innovative teaching methods. He deserves all the recognition he received today and we are quite fortunate to have him on our teaching staff.”

Cholmsky’s ability to make science and mathematics appealing and accessible, his commitment to ensuring the success of his students, and his involvement in the community were listed as some of his qualities as a truly inspiring and innovative educator with a love for science, mathematics and technology.

“Receiving this award is a true honour,” said Cholmsky. “The students’ commitment is what leads to their success and I do whatever I can to help them. For me, everything that happens from the time a student comes to school to when he leaves should be treated as a pedagogical activity.”

Cholmsky knows how to bring science and mathematics to life for his students, according to a school statement. “He views these subjects as tools for understanding and changing the world. Holder of a bachelor’s degree in engineering, he is convinced that what they experience in high school are among the factors that shape the decision of students to pursue a career in science and technology.”

He has also made considerable space for technology and played a key role in its integration in the classrooms of Villa Maria, making students more confident and preparing them for the workplace. Outside his classroom, Cholmsky participates in several extracurricular projects, such as heading the Techno-Farm project, teaching students about sustainable urban agriculture and climate change through practical tasks. n