Posted on 2026-05-01 21:23:36.836 +0000 UTC
High Prairie School Division is pleased to announce Oliver Sacuta of Kinuso School as our zone candidate for the 2026 Edwin Parr Award. The Edwin Parr Teacher Award is named after the past Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) President Edwin Parr to recognize outstanding first-year teachers who demonstrate excellence in the teaching quality standard (TQS). High Prairie School Division had two first-year teachers nominated as zone candidates for the 2026 Edwin Parr Award.
Kinuso School Principal Chris King noted the following in his letter of support for Mr. Sacuta:
Oliver Sacuta is an exceptional junior high Math and Science teacher whose passion for education is evident in every aspect of his work. From the moment he joined our school community, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to engage students in meaningful and authentic learning. His lessons are thoughtfully designed, interactive, and grounded in real-world connections that make both mathematics and science accessible and exciting for learners.
One of Oliver's greatest strengths is his ability to build strong, positive relationships with students. He takes the time to understand each learner as an individual, creating a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and confident in taking academic risks. His approachable nature and genuine care for student success foster both academic growth and personal development. Students respond to his enthusiasm and high expectations with increased engagement and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Oliver's passion for his subject areas is contagious. He brings energy and curiosity to his teaching, inspiring students to think critically and explore concepts deeply. His commitment to professional growth and reflective practice demonstrates that he is not only an effective teacher today, but one who is continuously striving to improve and innovate.
Beyond his classroom responsibilities, Oliver generously dedicates his personal time to enriching school life. He leads a junior/senior high band twice a week outside of regular teaching hours, providing students with valuable opportunities to develop their musical talents and build community through the arts. This commitment speaks to his dedication to the whole child and to creating a vibrant, well-rounded school experience for students.
Ryley Leganchuk of High Prairie Elementary School was also nominated for the award. While not moving forward as the HPSD zone candidate, Ryley has also made a strong impact on education within his first year of teaching. High Prairie Elementary School Principal Lyndsay Fleming had the following to share:
From his first days in our school, Ryley demonstrated his commitment to building relationships with staff, students and parents. He creates a welcoming and engaging classroom environment where students feel supported, respected and encouraged to take risks. It is almost impossible not to find yourself smiling in Ryley's classroom. He takes time to understand his students as individuals and works closely with families and support staff to ensure everyone has the chance to succeed. I have rarely met a first-year teacher who is as reflective in their practice. Ryley comes to each meeting with administration with a desire to improve, he listens to feedback and quickly implements changes with his own personal flair.
Beyond the classroom, he actively contributes to our school community and culture by volunteering for after-school programming and participating in every event. Ryley is unapologetically enthusiastic, he is an exceptional role model for our students and can encourage even the most reluctant student to take part in community-building activities. Outside of the school, Ryley is a Football Coach and has supported our local 4H clubs by volunteering to judge at their communications event. He attends local events and takes time to support his students, even when he is there for personal reasons.
To both Oliver and Ryley, congratulations on being such outstanding first-year teachers. Your work truly demonstrates excellence in the teaching quality standards. Oliver, we wish you all the best as you represent HPSD as our division's zone candidate for the Alberta School Boards Association 2026 Edwin Parr Teacher Award.