The Emerging Leader Award acknowledges the exceptional contributions of a first-term school board trustee who has demonstrated early and impactful leadership aligned with OPSBA’s mission, vision, values, and Multi-Year Strategic Priorities. This award celebrates trustees who are committed to equity, student success, and effective governance at the local level, and who serve as role models for the future of public education leadership in Ontario.
Terms of Award
Criteria
Demonstrates leadership in one or more of OPSBA’s Multi-Year Strategic Priorities
Actively participates in board governance and decision-making with integrity, transparency, and collaboration
Contributes meaningfully to policy discussions, community engagement, or strategic planning
Evidence of the nominee’s work leading to positive change, enhanced public engagement, or student-focused outcomes
Shows a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, relationship-building, and understanding of trustee responsibilities
Recognized by peers and/or staff as a promising leader in public education
Nomination Information Checklist
Eligibility
Must be a currently serving, first-term trustee at an Ontario English public school board
Trustees must be within their first four-year term and not previously elected or appointed to a trustee role
