Nicholas Sheran School honoured for inclusivity

By Lethbridge Herald on June 6, 2025.

Alexandra Noad
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Nicolas Sharan Elementary School was honoured with the Betty Grigg Inclusive Education Award at the Inclusion Lethbridge Gala held last month.

The award is named after Grigg, who was a pioneer in creating an inclusive environment within schools for children with developmental disabilities. The award has been recognizing schools that create inclusive environments for their students since 2006.

Grigg was president of Inclusion Lethbridge for many years, working tirelessly with parents, schools, politicians and other stakeholders to help create inclusive learning environments and communities.

Through her television show “Our Town,” she was able to bring disability issues to the forefront. The community became aware that, for too long, people with disabilities had been segregated from the community and in turn the community had been deprived of the opportunity to be enriched by the unique contributions of each citizen.

During his acceptance speech, Aaron Fitchett, principal of Nicolas Sharan Elementary School, said he recognized the work the teachers and support staff put in toward creating an inclusive environment for the children, as well as the families for their trust and advocacy for their children.

He adds that inclusion is a journey that is never finished, and his school is committed to continuing the education.

“It requires constant reflection, listening, and learning. At Nicholas Sheran, we are committed to continuing this work—by building strong relationships, seeking out new partnerships, and keeping student voice at the centre of our decision-making. We will continue to grow, to learn, and to share that learning with others.”

The Newton Family Award was also presented to the Millard and Nodge Family for their involvement in promoting the vision of “Everyone is fully included, living with dignity in their communities, participating, contributing and respected for their whole lives.”

Rene Plaizer, executive director of Inclusion Lethbridge, says it’s important to cultivate an inclusive space for children because it will help create a solid foundation for their entire life.

“By providing those opportunities for children when they’re little, we cultivate that whole sense of community and sense of equality and belonging for everyone, so, everybody benefits when we’re all here and part of our community.”

More information about Inclusion Lethbridge can be found on their website at inclusionlethbridge.ca.