Letter from the Prime Minister

Every year, at a special ceremony in Ottawa, I have the pleasure of meeting some of Canada's most outstanding teachers, the recipients of the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence.

I admire the work that they and all teachers are doing for Canada's young people. Teaching is a demanding profession, requiring extraordinary patience, creativity, compassion, and skill. Today's teachers face greater challenges than ever before, and I am impressed with the innovative ways in which teachers are helping their students to learn in a rapidly changing environment.

It is my pleasure, therefore, to share with you the thoughts, ideas, and practices of these special teachers. Exemplary Practices is a teacher's resource book, prepared by teachers for teachers. I hope that you will be able to apply their wisdom and experiences in your classrooms. It may well inspire you in your important work, and perhaps I will have the pleasure of presenting you with an Award next year.

Congratulations, once again, to all the 1998/1999 recipients of the Prime Minister's Award for Teaching Excellence, and thank you for your contributions to Canada's future.

Ottawa
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