Mr. Aiken has been recognized by The Learning Partnership for making a measurable difference in his community and in the lives of his students by ensuring that young people receive a quality education. The Learning Partnership is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to public education in Canada.

Mr. Aiken has been a teacher and administrator at Kensington Intermediate-Senior High School for more than 30 years.

Education Minister Gerard Greenan says George Aiken is an excellent choice for the 2008 award. “George is widely known for his extensive knowledge of teaching and learning and for the great depth of his commitment to education and his school. You will find him at the school from early morning to late in the evening working with his staff. Having initiated and experienced many innovations in education over the years, he has always been a very positive role model for continuous improvement in education. He is a highly respected educational leader and innovator who has had a great impact on many students, teachers and parents,” said the minister.

Western School Board Superintendent Dale Sabean also commended Mr. Aiken on receiving the prestigious award. “George is among the best school administrators that I have seen in my 36 years in education. He is admired by his peers for his ability to understand issues and push the boundaries to help his students achieve. A problem solver, decision maker and communicator, George is a model for many other leaders,” said Mr. Sabean.

In his nomination, KISH parents commended Mr. Aiken for encouraging parent participation in their children’s learning and for engaging students in academics, technology and healthy lifestyle activities. Kensington parents are proud of the fact other schools look to Kensington Intermediate-High for leadership in parent engagement and school improvement planning.

Nominations for the award were received from every province and territory. Judging was conducted by a distinguished group of Canadian leaders from the education and private sectors. Each candidate was scored in the categories of: characteristics of outstanding principals; evidence of partnerships with parents and community; a personal story illustrating successful change and innovation which resulted in improved student achievement as well as letters of support.

Later this month, the 33 winning principals will participate in a four-day executive leadership training program at the prestigious University of Toronto Rotman School of Management. Following this, they will be inducted into the National Academy of Principals and formally recognized at a dinner in their honour, Canada’s Outstanding Principals Awards Gala Celebration.

The Prince Edward Island Department of Education is a funding partner in Canada’s Outstanding Principals Program.

Previous Prince Edward Island winners of the most outstanding principal award include BJ Willis, 2005; Cynthia MacDonald, 2006; and Susan Willis, 2007.