The Ophea Award of Distinction is presented to one individual who is a leader in the meaningful advancement of inclusive healthy, active living opportunities for children and youth in Ontario school communities. The Ophea Award of Distinction is in honour of Bing Caswell, a dedicated professional whose thought leadership and commitment led to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in the field of health and physical education.
Ophea is thrilled to recognize Lara Paterson with Ophea’s Award of Distinction, our highest honor. Lara’s work has had a profound impact locally, regionally, provincially, and nationally. Her dedication and passion are an inspiration to all, and it is with great pride and gratitude that she is the recipient of Ophea’s 2023/2024 Award of Distinction.
For over 30 years, Lara has been initiating and accelerating change, growth, and action in every situation.
Lara has been a catalyst for many initiatives as the Physical Activity Specialist for the Limestone District School Board and Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington Public Health. Lara’s 31 years of dedication and leadership have not only shaped the lives of countless students but have also strengthened the bonds between school board and public health unit. This collaboration is a testament to the visionary leaders who saw the potential of a shared position, bringing together the strengths of both education and public health to create an environment where students thrive.
Lara’s journey is marked by outstanding achievements at every level. Her teaching career started with Toronto District School Board, teaching at Kane Middle School and Silverthorn Public School. She then taught at J.R. Henderson Public School with the Limestone District School Board where she championed early provincial efforts around Healthy Schools. Regionally, she has initiated school board trainer programs for elementary schools, coordinated board-wide professional development days focused on Health and Physical Education, led Daily Physical Activity training from Kindergarten to grade 8 and organized events like the annual “Celebration of Dance”.
On a provincial level, Lara’s influence extends even further. She has been a committed member of Ophea’s Safety and Injury Prevention Advisory Committee since 2005, where her deep understanding of safety needs and her advocacy for student safety have been invaluable. As an Ophea Ambassador, she has shared her expertise to guide the direction of Health and Physical Education across the province.
Lara not only embraces continuous learning but also places a high value on ongoing education and the development of her colleagues in support of the development of the sector.
Lara’s contributions as a resource writer, consultant, and volunteer have been equally impactful. From contributing to the Ontario Ministry of Education revisions of the Ontario Health and Physical Education curriculum, developing high-quality programming for Queen’s University’s Additional Qualification courses, and developing content for Ophea’s Daily Physical Activity, Road Safety, and Online Safety resources her work has benefited educators and students alike.
In her roles as a coach and trainer, Lara has exemplified lifelong learning. Working with organizations like Ophea, Lara has engaged teachers, building their capacity to deliver quality, inclusive learning experiences. Her mentorship has extended to instructing courses for the Upper Canada District School Board and Queen’s University, influencing a new generation of Health and Physical Education professionals.
Lara’s dedication to building relationships and working in partnership has been a key to influencing policy and practice change in the education system.
As a leader within the Ontario Association for the Support of Physical and Health Educators (OASPHE), Lara has built professional networks and advocated for the development of quality programming and resources. Her efforts have ensured the healthy development of children and youth across Ontario.
This award honors Lara for her exceptional contributions and serves as a symbol of the unique and powerful collaboration between school boards and public health units. This partnership is a model of how working together can create extraordinary opportunities and outcomes for school communities.
