The OCDSB's Student Awards celebrate excellence in student leadership. Each year we proudly honour our senior student leaders through this recognition program, which serves as part of the OCDSB's long-term goal to strengthen our commitment to creating a learning and work environment that encourages positive outcomes for all students and staff.

Student Recognition Awards

This award recognizes students who have demonstrated personal initiative, supported by the will to succeed, the dedication to finish what they started, and the commitment to achieve their personal best and to achieve a positive outcome in their secondary school.

Congratulations to Yelyzaveta K!

Living alone in Canada while her family in Ukraine deals with the ongoing war, Yelyzaveta is an exceptional student. Despite immense stress, she is polite, hardworking and achieves excellent grades. Yelyzaveta works nearly full-time, supporting herself and sending money home, a testament to her incredible resilience. Her academic success is even more remarkable considering English is not her first language. Despite these challenges, Yelyzaveta maintains an overwhelmingly positive attitude, always smiling and appreciative of the freedom and opportunities Canada offers. Her strength and dedication are truly inspiring.

Mayor's Award

This award recognizes students who perform exceptional service for others in their school community with individual acts or longstanding quiet commitment and dedication to making the lives of others better. This is the first year for the Mayor's Award.

Congratulations to Tessa N!

Tessa embodies kindness and inspiring leadership through her involvement in sports and community work. After being diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in high school, Tessa channeled her experience into advocacy by volunteering with RAREsies Rule, raising awareness for rare diseases through impactful campaigns. Her compassion extends to the Ronald McDonald House, where she brings comfort to families during challenging times. Tessa's resilience, unwavering dedication and inclusive spirit have made her a role model within her school and the wider community. Her actions and advocacy consistently inspire and create positive change.

Excellence in Equity Student Award

This award recognizes a grade 12 student who has demonstrated personal initiative to achieve a positive, safe and inclusive school climate.

Congratulations to Sydney D!

For more information about the 2025 Student Awards, visit the OCDSB website.