The principal of a Hawkesbury high school has been named one of “Canada’s Outstanding Principals” by The Learning Partnership, a charity dedicated to promoting public education. Anne Laflamme, principal of École secondaire publique Le Sommet since 2003, is one of 40 principals recognized by the organization in 2017. The Learning Partnership, on its website, mentions Laflamme’s achievements, including implementing an International Baccalaureate (IB) program and creating “Specialist High Skills Major” programs in rural programming, health education, culture and the arts, and business sports. It also mentions Le Sommet’s hosting of an International Hockey Academy. “Anne recognizes the potential in each staff member and encourages teachers to enroll in professional development courses to develop their leadership skills. Anne is a leader who inspires others to learn and excel,” it says. The school, on its Facebook page, congratulates Laflamme. “Considering her school like a big family, Mrs. Laflamme always wants to attain new summits, a passion she shares every day with students and everyone who participates, from near and far, in the success of the school,” said a post on the page, originally written in French. The school board, Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO), also published a statement about the award. “Mrs. Laflamme is a model of leadership and creativity,” it said. “She is motivated by projects, partnerships and initiatives which allow students and members of her staff to reach their full potential.”
