Recipient: Ron Martinello

School: St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School

Number of Years Teaching: 16

Grade: 10, 11 and 12

Subject: History and Law

Inspiration/Motivation for being a teacher of excellence:

Ron was quickly able to identify his parents as his source of inspiration for teaching with excellence.  Both of his parents were immigrants who came to Canada with only grade 2 to 3 education.  His father had to work a very hard and physical job in order to support the family.  One thing Ron’s parents were committed to was that neither Ron nor his two brothers would ever work during their school years.  His parents wanted their children to have a solid education.  Ron teaches as of way of giving back to his parents who worked so hard to guarantee him an education and to the teachers who helped him as he was a student.

Ron is also inspired by his students, specifically those who face great challenges in school and life but keep trying and giving back.

Several of Ron’s colleagues and students took the time to write to us about Ron. One of Ron’s OAC Law students wrote this about Ron:

Mr. Martinello not only teaches his lessons in a way that students are challenged to think and draw conclusions, he also ensures our class is aware of issues in our world.  He begins each class with a discussion of the news where we can each contribute to the conversation with our knowledge.  This has encouraged us to read newspapers and watch CNN.

Mr. Martinello treats all of his students as valuable assets that are full of potential for the future.  This is shown by the way he encourages us to contribute and work to the best of our abilities. His integrity is very important to him and students respect this.  Mr. Martinello will always explain reasons why he will or will not do something. Years after graduation I am sure we will all remember his great spirit, wonderful attitude and the integrity he modeled to us.