Exceptional Teachers Across Canada Honoured by Grand & Toy

'A Day Made Better' initiative recognizes teachers for their extraordinary passion, creativity, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability

TORONTO, Oct. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - Canadian office solutions provider Grand & Toy today announced the 17 dedicated teachers from publicly-funded schools who are the recipients of its 2012 'A Day Made Better' award (www.grandandtoy.com/betterday).

The initiative rewards exceptional kindergarten to grade 8 teachers with a massive box, containing $1,500 worth of classroom supplies, including an environmentally preferable and ergonomic chair donated by Safco Products. According to survey results released in 2010 by the Canadian Teachers' Federation, the average Canadian teacher spent $453 in out-of-pocket expenses to fund classroom needs, such as supplies or classroom activities.

"Teachers are often unsung heroes, going above and beyond in order to help ensure a bright future for our children," said Kevin Edwards, Vice President Marketing, U.S. & Canada, OfficeMax / Grand & Toy. "When I hear about how teachers put their own money into the classroom, as well as all the time and energy they put into their work, I am inspired by their incredible commitment to our children. We are extremely proud at Grand & Toy to be able to support them as they help educate the next generation of Canadians."

Now in its fourth year, the national 'A Day Made Better' initiative received 69 nominations from across the country. This year the program also added the Learning for a Sustainable Future Greenest Teacher of the Year Award, in partnership with Learning for a Sustainable Future. Three teachers have been recognized for their extraordinary commitment to sustainability and will be given a cash award to be used towards implementing a sustainability project at their respective schools.

The recognized teachers come from cities and towns across the country including: Calgary, Winnipeg, Hamilton, Surrey B.C, Middle Sackville N.S., and Bloomfield PEI.

This year's recipients were recognized for their use of technology (such as the use of Kobo readers, iPads or whiteboards) to help engage students, by going the extra mile as they keep parents up-to-date on their child's progress, being deeply involved in the communities they teach, and instilling respect and understanding for the environment.

Prize
Each box presented today contains more than 80 items, including a boom box with an iPod cradle, a digital camera and innovative arts and crafts materials. The award also includes a gift that the teacher can call his or her own, an ergonomic chair.

Judging Process
The Selection Committee includes select staff from both G&T and Learning for a Sustainable Future. Entries are graded based on a variety of attributes including: the teacher's passion and commitment to sustainability; as well as their innovation and inspiration in the classroom. The winning teachers will be presented with their rewards in their classrooms today.

About Grand & Toy
Grand & Toy is one of Canada's leading office solutions providers. With a heritage that dates back to 1882, today's Grand & Toy is committed to offering sustainable solutions to Canadian business in the areas of interiors, technology, and imaging in addition to office and facility supplies. We operate one of the country's largest distribution networks serving clients coast-to-coast. Grand & Toy also demonstrates a firm commitment to corporate social responsibility through a comprehensive sustainability strategy that's manifested through numerous internal and external environmental and social outreach programs. For more information, visit grandandtoy.com.

About LSF
Founded in 1991, Learning for a Sustainable Future is a non-profit Canadian organization inspiring a new generation of responsible citizens.  Working with business, governments, school boards, universities, educators, youth, and communities across Canada, LSF is a connector, a resource and a facilitator for change.  LSF's mission is to promote, through education, the knowledge, skills, perspectives, and practices essential to a sustainable future. For more information, visit www.lsf-lst.ca.

SOURCE: Grand & Toy

Media Contacts:
Amanda Fearon
Environics Communications
416-969-2654
[email protected]