Vassa van Tol was recently presented with the award at the federation's annual meeting in Toronto. ETFO is the largest teacher federation in Canada- representing 73,000 elementary public school teachers and education workers across Ontario. The award is considered the organization's highest form of recognition presented to an occasional teacher.

Awards Committee members noted the local teacher has a strong understanding of the importance of participating in professional development activities and keeping up-to-date through professional reading. The 23-year veteran of the occasional teaching ranks was lauded for her willingness to work cooperatively with colleagues, her commitment to students and the wealth of resources she brings to the classroom.

"Those who have worked with Vassa over the years have been enriched by her contributions, dependability, enthusiasm, and good-heartedness," said ETFO President David Clegg in a news release.

She has also been an active member of the Peel Occasional Teacher Local and its predecessor organization.