Making a tribute in honour or memory of someone special can create a lasting legacy that continues giving for years.
Rick Theriault, a teacher at Lester B. Pearson High School, was passionate about keeping students
involved in school through athletics. After his untimely death, his wife started the Rick Theriault
Outstanding Athletic Contribution Award that recognizes athletes whose passion for sports gave them the drive to finish school.
In honour of Bev Hubert, who retired from the Calgary Board of Education after 40 years of service, the CBE Board of Trustees started the Beverley Hubert Global Citizenship Fund. It was Bev who wanted the fund to support programs that engage students in the understanding and personal demonstration of Global Citizenship.
Tyler Zeer was an incoming Bowness High School student who died tragically after an accident at a football practice. His mother started the Tyler Zeer Memorial Fund after his death to remember Tyler and support what was important to him. Money from the fund is directed to Montgomery and Thomas B. Riley schools to help kids who couldn't otherwise afford to participate in school activities like team sports and field trips.
Graduation tribute gifts are another powerful way to honour someone. Judy Duncan, an EducationMatters volunteer, came up with a clever alternative to the typical gifts of money or clothes and made a tribute gift in honour of her nephew when he graduated from high school in 2009.
Teacher tribute gifts are also a powerful way to say 'thank you' to your child's teacher, or remember a special teacher in your life.
Whether it be to honour of the life of a loved one, to recognize a special individual who made a difference, or to celebrate a milestone; a tribute gift is an excellent way to make a lasting contribution to Calgary's public education students.
If you would like more information about making tribute gifts through EducationMatters, please contact Heather Hankins-Bruce, Senior Development Officer, 403-294-8112.