Derek Hyland, third from left, received an Arbos award from the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation on April 25 for Contributions to Education and the Teaching Profession. On his left is Meaghan O’Grady (LTA councillor) and his wife and teacher, Leslie Hyland, and on his right are Samantha Becotte (STF president), Derek Armstrong (LTA president), Carla McPherson (LTA vice-president) and Pam Newman (LTA councillor). Derek teaches at Bishop Lloyd Middle School. Supplied Photo
Students are always top of mind for Derek Hyland, who teaches the Grade 8 land-based cultural leadership program at Bishop Lloyd Middle School.
That’s why he seemed more focused on backing up a canoe trailer at school last Friday than he was on the prestigious Arbos award presented to him by the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF) the day before.
“We’re going canoeing at the pool this afternoon with the Grade 8s. There’s never a dull moment,” said Hyland less than 24 hours after receiving an Arbos for Contributions to Education and the Teaching Profession.
He is one of three teachers to receive an Arbos this year and the only teacher awarded in the Lloydminster public and Catholic school divisions.
An Arbos award honours Saskatchewan teachers who have made outstanding contributions to education and the teaching profession that are broad and significant in their scope and impact.
“It’s a pretty cool thing to be nominated and receive an award like that. I’m not alone in the work that I do and there’s a lot of teachers who do a lot of amazing work,” said Hyland.
An Arbos is the highest honour the STF can bestow upon a teacher or individual working in education.
Jason Neville, director of education with the Lloydminster Public School Division says the award underscores Hyland’s “profound impact” through the land-based learning program.
“His innovative approach engages and connects students with their environment and deepens their understanding of our cultural heritage,” said Neville.
“This award highlights his exceptional dedication and significant contributions to teaching.”
Each Arbos includes honorary life membership in the STF and an Arbos statuette, presented during the federation’s annual meeting of council luncheon in Saskatoon on April 25.
Hyland received the award with his wife Leslie on hand to lead the applause as a Grade 8 teacher herself at E.S. Laird Middle School.
The recipient of this award is selected from nominations submitted by local associations, professional growth networks, teachers, trustees, directors of education, teacher educators or officials in educational organizations.
A selection committee of teachers forwards the name of one of the nominees to the STF executive as the recommended recipient for this award.
