Houghton Public School
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Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School has been recognized with a national honour, receiving EcoSchools Canada's 2025–26 Secondary EcoTeam award. The accolade celebrates outstanding leadership in environmental action and sustainability initiatives.
"My experience with the EcoTeam has shown me how much the things you get involved with have an effect on the people and environment around you," said Evelyn Waldron, a Grade 12 student who has been a member of the EcoTeam all four years of secondary school. "Taking care of the planet means taking care of ourselves. I hope new students continue this work and continue inspiring fellow students through it."
The award acknowledges the dedication of Pauline Johnson's EcoTeam members and staff leaders, who have spent the school year advancing environmental projects and fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the school community. The achievement continues a long-standing tradition of environmental excellence at PJ, which has earned EcoSchools Canada's highest certification level, Platinum, for the past three years and is set to achieve Platinum status for a fourth consecutive year when certifications are officially announced.
"The Eco Club and its initiatives are a core aspect of life and learning at PJ," said educator Jennifer Hines, one of the staff leads. "At the heart of it is the PJ spirit of being global citizens. Many small acts, done with consistency and compassion, become larger habits that are foundational to who we are and how we grow as learners."
On June 16, EcoSchools Canada Co-Executive Director Sierra Frank visited the school to present the award-winning EcoTeam and teacher leads with a commemorative trophy. On hand to congratulate students were members of Grand Erie's senior leadership team, including JoAnna Roberto, Chief Executive Officer; Raf Wyszynski, Superintendent of Business Services; Kevin Graham, Superintendent of Education responsible for secondary schools; and Chris McAnally, Grand Erie's Energy and Sustainability Officer.
"The environmental initiatives that the Eco Club undertakes provide students with many opportunities to develop empathy and care for our school, our community, and our planet," said educator Carolyn Lowes, another staff lead, who points out that PJ's Eco Club efforts go back decades. "Students' planning, organizing, writing, collaborating, and completing these projects builds valuable skills and confidence, and I'm hopeful that the work we do here makes connections with enough students that they go out in the world and have a positive impact on our planet throughout their lives."
As part of the award, the school also received a $2,500 grant to support a future environmental initiative of its choosing. The team already has a cross-curricular project in mind, working with technology classes next fall to construct wooden bird, bat, and turtle boxes that facilitate species protection.
The national recognition highlights Pauline Johnson's commitment to environmental stewardship and the lasting impact of student-led action in building a more sustainable future.
