George Matthews Award

Award Background

George Edwin Matthews (1941-2001) was a steadfast supporter of parents in education during his years as a manager in Field Services for the Ministry of Education and liaison with BCCPAC. His opinions and judgment were widely respected, and his fair-mindedness won him the confidence of the membership. The award was created in memory of George to honor his support of BCCPAC.

Award Criteria

This annual award is open only to current/active BCCPAC members.

The George Matthews Award will honor a parent/guardian/caregiver who has been an exemplary leader, not only in the education of their own children, but who has also lead others in having a significant impact on the ability for parents/guardians/caregivers to advance and exercise leadership in public education.

Nominator(s) may be any person or group of persons with direct knowledge of the nominee's contributions but may not be a family member. Award recipients will be selected based on their dynamic leadership qualities that exemplify personal and inspirational practices which have had major, identifiable impact on parent/guardian/caregiver interest and participation in public education. Specific criteria include excellent leadership practices, parent/guardian/caregiver interest and participation, as well as student acknowledgement.

Excellent leadership practices through:

• innovative methods to promote interest in learning opportunities for parents/guardians/caregivers
• development of education partnerships
• support provided to parents/guardians/caregivers in need
• non-adversarial, non-confrontational approaches to problem-solving and issue management
• development/publication of resources

Parent/guardian/caregiver interest and participation through:

• participation of socially or economically disadvantaged parents/guardians/caregivers
• parent/guardian/caregiver representation on school/district committees
• participation at learning opportunities initiated by parents/guardians/caregivers (e.g. workshops)
• parent/guardian/caregiver participation at school/district-initiated opportunities (e.g. Pro D)
• parents/guardians/caregivers taking on leadership roles
• parent/guardian/caregiver attendance at PAC/DPAC meetings

The recipient will be presented the award during our AGM in May.

Nomination Period Opens: February 1, 2025

Award Nomination Form: George Matthews Award Nomination Form

Nomination Period Closes: March 31, 2025