Grand Erie Celebrates Learn Lead Inspire Award Recipients

Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026

Across the Grand Erie District School Board, exceptional individuals are turning everyday moments into lasting impacts. Through the Learn Lead Inspire Awards, Grand Erie celebrates students, employees and volunteers who embody the district’s strategic plan and priorities, and fosters learning, well-being and belonging in schools every day.

“The Learn Lead Inspire Awards highlight the incredible heart and passion alive in school communities," said Dr. JoAnna Roberto, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer. "Through dedicated volunteerism, creative initiatives and above-and-beyond efforts, these recipients exemplify what it means to build a culture where every learner feels supported, valued and inspired to succeed."

Recently, at the inaugural Grand Recognition event, the following individuals were recognized.

Kim Sinko, Volunteer, St. George German School

Kim Sinko

Kim Sinko is a volunteer at St. George German School who makes a positive impact in the experiences of students every day. For more than six years, she served as School Council treasurer, but her contributions extend far beyond that role.

As an active member of the school community, Kim builds meaningful connections with students through small group and one-to-one instruction. Whether she’s guiding a reading group, reinforcing math concepts or simply offering reassurance, she helps students feel comfortable, confident, and excited about learning.

Kim supports school-wide initiatives like the “No Kid Left Behind” program, assists during recess as a fill-in supervisor, accompanies classes on field trips, and recently spearheaded the organization of school-wide classroom activity equipment to support student well-being and engagement.

Kim is recognized by teachers and staff for her positive energy and commitment that contributes to a warm, inclusive school culture.

Michelle Spencer, Teacher, Woodman-Cainsville School

Brian Doyle, JoAnna Roberto, Michelle Spencer, Julie White standing on stage for LLI recognition.

Students at Woodman-Cainsville School now have an extra break in the day designed to help relieve frustrations and anxiety through play, thanks to Michelle Spencer.

The program is called Break Buddies, and Michelle came up with the idea after being inspired from the Right to Read Workshop and the book, Reclaiming Our Students. With the support of school staff, she was able to bring Break Buddies to life.

Under this unique program, junior and intermediate students are chosen to be buddies and meet twice a week. A big buddy is given the responsibility of leading the game by choosing the breathing strategy, the timer, and playing a game. This breathing break not only relieves anxiety, but encourages students to work together and support each other’s health and well being.

Kelli Wiedrick, Nutrition Break Supervisor, Agnes G. Hodge Public School

Brian Doyle, JoAnna Roberto, Kelli Wiedrick, Thomas Ro, Liana Thompson

For the past two years, Kelli Widerick has taken a lead role in running the nutrition program that supports over 700 students at Agnes G. Hodge Public School.

On a weekly basis, Kelli oversees the ordering and daily preparation of lunches for the program, and spends time organizing fun initiatives such as "The Big Crunch" and "The Great Grain Race".

On top of these responsibilities, Kelli is also the lunch supervisor and a dedicated member of the school council, helping to plan and execute events for the school community such as family trivia night and family craft nights.

Do you know a student, employee or volunteer making a remarkable difference in your school? Nominations for the Learn Lead Inspire Award are accepted throughout the school year.

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