As the school year drew to a close, the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board held a special ceremony to honour the nominees and recipient of the Domenica Leone Award. This annual award, established in loving memory of Domenica Leone, celebrates individuals who embody her dedication to inclusive education and support for students with diverse learning needs.
Domenica Leone was a committed educator for over 35 years, serving as an exemplary classroom teacher, special education resource teacher, Vice-Principal, and Assistant Superintendent with the HWCDSB from 1987 to 2018. Her keen interest in supporting children and youth with special and diverse learning needs, combined with her ability to share her experiences and knowledge with colleagues, left a lasting impact. Domenica fully embraced the philosophy of "Each Belongs" and inspired others to develop their leadership potential. The Domenica Leone Award, established by the Leone family, aims to recognise the hard work and dedication of the HWCDSB’s special education staff who provide care and compassion in the service of exceptional children.
This year's nominees included a distinguished group of staff from special education roles:
• Maria Vallve-Spence
• Annice Jacek-Winterfield
• Lidia Sardo
• Team: Kerri DiCenzo, Danielle McCharles, Tracy Reardon
• Christina Brajkovic
• Michael Sciullintano-Viscoso
• Mara Medeiros
• Bridget Reeves
• Margaret Feher
• Gloria Alvarez
• Rose Capobianco
Each nominee was celebrated for their passion for inclusion, their genuine recognition and celebration of student successes, and their respectful and joyful interactions with students.
Following a thorough review process conducted by the selection committee, which included input from Domenica's daughter Diana, Kerry Dwyer-Mitchell was selected as this year's award recipient. The ceremony not only recognised Kerry’s exceptional contributions but also highlighted their role in advancing Domenica Leone’s mission of supporting children and youth with diverse learning needs.
Superintendent of Education Tracey Ferrie praised the nominees and Kerry Dwyer-Mitchell for their tireless efforts. “Our special education staff work tirelessly every day to support our students with diverse learning needs, without expecting any recognition,” Ferrie said. “Their dedication and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is truly remarkable. The recognition from their peers, as well as staff, principals, and teachers within their school communities makes this award exceptionally special.”
The award ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations to all the nominees and a celebration of their significant contributions to the HWCDSB community.
