Creator of educational toolkit awarded

Sylvia Smith, who created Project of Heart, an educational toolkit that helps students understand the history of residential schools, received a 2011 Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Teaching. She is one of seven teachers across the country to be honoured. Smith grew up in Allen, Sask., and currently teaches at Elizabeth Wyn Wood Alternative High School in Ottawa. Since it was created in 2007, Project of Heart has been used by schools and community groups across Canada. It was also showcased at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s first national event in Winnipeg in June 2010. Smith is currently working on her master’s degree in education through the University of Regina. She is interviewing teachers and their perceptions of working on Project of Heart.