October 18, 2013
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Honours DSBN Educator
Earlier this week, the province formally recognized what students and staff at the District School Board of Niagara have known all along: Tracy Sacco is an outstanding citizen. On Thursday, October 17, Tracy Sacco was welcomed at the Ontario Legislature and presented the 2013 Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Honourable David C. Onley.
The Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship is an honorary medal established by the Government of Ontario in 1973 to recognize people who, through exceptional long-term efforts, have made outstanding contributions to the well being of their communities and whose assistance is given without remuneration or reward.
“In a system filled with exceptional people who truly care for students, Tracy Sacco stands out as someone who leads by example. She is tireless, determined and committed to the belief that all young people can succeed no matter what challenges they face. We all congratulate her on this much deserved recognition,” said Warren Hoshizaki, DSBN Director of Education.
“We know that Tracy has made a tremendously positive impact on the students she’s worked with. In particular, the partnerships she has developed with the Niagara Regional Police and John Howard Society have provided countless students with the support and guidance they needed to become successful high school graduates,” said Helen McGregor, Superintendent of Secondary Schools and Student Success Initiatives.
In a news release posted to the Niagara Regional Police website, NRP Superintendent of District Operations Bob Wright said the service was very pleased to nominate Tracy for such a prestigious award. “We have had the opportunity to work closely with Ms. Sacco on numerous community projects involving youth and school safety. She is a determined advocate of our youth, particularly those who are marginalized or in any way disadvantaged. She works tirelessly to provide opportunities for young people to improve their circumstance and reach their potential. The Niagara Regional Police Service is indebted to her for her commitment to our youth and it is very rewarding to see her recognized for her leadership in our community," said Wright.
While she appreciates the recognition, helping students will always be Tracy Sacco's first priority. “Kids are why I do my job; kids come first. I’m lucky to have the support of such amazing colleagues who all feel the same way. By working together, we’re able to make a real difference in children’s lives and that’s what’s most important,” said Sacco.
Tracy Sacco first became a principal at the DSBN in 1996. Since then, she has served at Welland Centennial, Port Colborne Secondary, St. Catharines Collegiate and most recently at A.N. Myer Secondary in Niagara Falls. Tracy currently serves as the DSBN’s Student Achievement Leader for Alternative Education.