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For 2 decades Phillip Rickeard (Butch as he鈥檚 better known) has been an innovator, leader, mentor and inspiration. He is now, also, a recipient of the Prime Minister鈥檚 Award for Teaching Excellence.
Butch is being recognized for his 鈥渨ork and dedication to empowering students to be contributing members of their communities.鈥� He鈥檚 somewhat of a paradox 鈥� a history teacher who has used the latest technology and information gathering to engage his students and enhance their learning about the past. But it鈥檚 not a high-tech free-for-all. Butch encourages quality work with credible sources promoting ethical and objective use of technology.
The Prime Minister鈥檚 Awards for Teaching Excellence celebrate 鈥渞emarkable achievements鈥nd their commitment to preparing students for a digital and innovation-based economy.鈥� Butch has recently transitioned from being a Department Head at Leamington District Secondary School, with involvement in the International Baccalaureate Programme, to a position at the Public Alternative Secondary School (PASS). He works with young adults, ages 17-21, who have become disengaged and disenchanted with traditional learning helping them earn their Ontario Secondary School Diplomas.
Butch has been an advocate of student success and skill development for his entire teaching career emphasizing achievement through the development of individual character and community service.