Event celebrates young students’ determination and resilience
For the last 14 years, John and Betty Lou Craig of Craig Manufacturing in Hartland have been honouring students who have made remarkable improvements. Whether through noticeable behaviour or academic improvements, students who have stood out to their teachers and staff have been considered for the award.
Award recipients are chosen via committee. Each school forms a group to consider students and, depending on its population, may choose either one or two students to receive the annual award.
“Congratulations to all of the Turnaround Award Recipients that made this happen for themselves,” said teacher Ryan Brewer. “They did this. You guys are the ones who made the decisions, and that’s what got you into this room. You’re the ones that deserve all the applause that comes with a night like tonight.”
On May 20, 15 students from 13 schools were awarded Craig Manufacturing Turnaround Achievement Awards at a ceremony held at the Best Western Plus Woodstock Hotel & Conference Centre. Each student sat at their own table with family and teachers, eating a lovely meal and taking turns being called to the front to be celebrated with speeches and plaques.
This year, Betty Lou Craig presented each winner with a custom bookbag featuring the Craig Manufacturing Turnaround Award logo and the students’ initials. Inside each bag was a plaque highlighting their achievement and a box of Smarties. Their names will be added to the school plaque that lists all previous winners of the award, for posterity.
Betty Lou also let students know that any past or present award winner could apply for a Craig Manufacturing Scholarship if they ever decided to further their education beyond high school, whether at a university or a trade school.
“We do hope that you will apply because we would love to be a part of your ongoing success,” she said.
Award Winners
Ethan McDougal, Donald Fraser Memorial School, Grade 5
“Ethan’s journey at Donald Fraser Memorial School has been defined by perseverance, courage, and meaningful growth,” said teacher Katie Cooper. “Over time, he has made steady progress, showing resilience and a willingness to keep trying even when things were difficult.”
Cooper reflected on how hard McDougall has worked over the last few years to better regulate his emotions and to overcome challenges with eating and making social connections. She explained that with support from those around him and his own grit and determination, he has grown into someone who now helps others with empathy.
McDougall, who volunteers at the manor, was a Heritage Fair Winner, Writer of the Month, and Cub of the Month.
He’s now viewed by both staff and fellow students as a kind, respectful, and trustworthy individual.
“Congratulations, Ethan,” said Cooper. “This award is so well deserved.”
Violet Sappier, Andover Elementary School, Grade 5
Lindsay Gifford has been Violet Sappier’s teacher for the last two years. She spoke with pride about the growth she’s seen in Sappier over the time she has known her. She went from the shy, inward-turning child who first arrived at their school in second grade to someone who has learned to form friendships with a wide and varied group of people.
She’s learned to take pride in her school work, making significant improvements in her math and reading skills. Sappier’s taken on leadership roles that often have her up front during assemblies.
“Standing in front of her peers to present awards at assemblies is no small task, and she has taken it on with courage and growing confidence. This willingness to put herself out there shows just how much she has grown,” said Gifford. “Violet’s journey is a powerful reminder that growth takes courage, time and effort.”
Bentley Dixon, Meduxnekeaq Consolidated School, Grade 5
“Bentley always has a smile on his face and goes out of his way to include others in games and activities,” said teacher Cassy Hemphill. “He has a special ability to make people feel important. When you have a conversation with Bentley, he gives you your full attention and makes you feel like you are the most important person in the room.”
Dixon is seen by his classmates as a gifted puzzle master who is brave and kind to those around him. His teacher spoke of him as someone who has grown through his constant determination to learn, even when the subjects are difficult. She also spoke with warmth about how he’s learned to better advocate for himself and his needs in a respectful way.
“Keep being exactly who you are,” said Hemphill. “We cannot wait to see all the amazing things ahead for you. Congratulations.”
Stephen Knox, Nackawic Elementary School, Grade 5
Stephen Knox has worked hard to learn how to self-regulate his responses to activities and situations he didn’t like. In his write-up, his teacher, Justin Morehouse, described him as someone who would run away from situations, throw things, and act in ways that could harm himself. He explained that years of support for Knox, both in schools and at home, combined with his own determination to grow and learn, have led to the positive changes they see in him today.
During his speech, Morehouse praised Knox for his dedication to personal growth over the years, even in the face of small setbacks.
“One thing he has proven to me time and time again is he never lets one action define who he is. He does not just see himself as who he is today, but who he wants to see himself as tomorrow,” said Morehouse.
Sam Wilkins, Townsview School, Grade 6
Teachers Kate Gionet and Claire Ayotte gave a joint presentation about their award winner, Sam Wilkins.
They described Wilkins as an energetic and enthusiastic individual who loves reading, learning about animals, Canadian history, and discovering new characters in books and movies. She’s worked hard to develop friendships within her peer group and to adjust to the changes that come with growing up.
“As educators, we always hope to make a meaningful impact on our students. But every so often, a student comes along who has a profound impact on us. It has been an absolute honour to be Sam’s teacher this year, and Sam is one of those students we will always remember,” said Gionet and Ayotte.
Madison McNally, Hartland Middle School, Grade 7
Educational Assistant Tara Young has known Madison McNally since kindergarten. She spoke of an adorable child who struggled with the challenges of her new school routine and expectations. Over the years, with strong support from both school and home, she’s witnessed tremendous growth in McNally.
Young also praised McNally’s mother, Elizabeth, for setting a strong, positive example and encouraging McNally’s community spirit through programs like the school’s Jump Rope for the Heart, for which they’ve raised thousands over the years.
“Madison has learned the importance of giving of one’s time to benefit the world around her and does so with her school community often. This involvement has nurtured a spirit of volunteerism that has boosted Madison’s confidence and aim for growth,” said Young. “Her dedication, perseverance, and determination to improve have shaped her into a mature, kind, giving, hardworking, and emotionally balanced young woman. She is truly deserving of the Craig [Manufacturing] Turnaround Achievement Award.”
Cayden Paradis, Tobique Valley High School
Over the past two years, Cayden Paradis has developed from someone who was largely non-verbal, avoided eye contact, and relied on headphones to help him get through the school day to someone who now communicates verbally, consistently makes eye contact, and has taken a greater interest in his schoolwork than ever before.
Teacher Tara Lagace beamed with pride as she spoke of his growth both socially and academically.
“Cayden’s journey is a powerful example of what the Turnaround Achievement Award represents. His growth required courage, persistence, and hard work, and his accomplishments are deeply meaningful,” said Lagace. “His progress is inspiring, and his story is one that deserves recognition and celebration.”
Dexter Brown, Perth-Andover Middle School, Grade 6
Teacher and fellow Newfoundlander Kim Cheeseman introduced Dexter Brown to the room. In animated tones, she described Brown as an unforgettable personality, with a busy, inquisitive mind and an eye for even the smallest details. He has often enthralled her with his up-to-the-minute stories about the goings-on at the school, causing her to tease him about starting his own gossip column, entitled “The Brown Report.”
She praised his mother, Amanda, for her ongoing support and willingness to partner with the school throughout their many calls home.
Cheeseman commended Brown for how well he’s learned to work with his fellow students, even becoming a member of the school’s volleyball team.
“Dexter Brown didn’t just pass through these years. He grew, he adapted, and he became someone you can be proud of. Dexter, keep asking questions. Keep noticing the little things,” said Cheeseman. “And please consider that gossip column!”
Mahkai Sappier Cote, Meduxnekeag Consolidated School, Grade 8
“The Mahkai I know today has drive and determination. He strives to do his very best every day. He separates himself from the drama and is motivated to be successful. He has changed his focus. Makai is now a role model,” said teacher Lori Bird.
Bird described Sappier Cote as diligent. He’s his school’s representative, and he’s frequently been sought out for leadership roles. Determined to get the highest math grade possible, he consistently seeks out opportunities to do extra work.
“Thank you, Makai, for seeing your own potential and working hard to be the best version of yourself possible,” said Bird. “I am very proud of you, as is everyone who has watched you grow into a fine young man. I know you’re destined to do great things.”
Gabe Beck, John Caldwell School, Grade 12
“Like many students navigating setbacks, there were moments when the path forward felt uncertain. What defines Gabe, however, is not those struggles — but the way he responds to them,” wrote school counsellor Jessica Cyr.
Award winner Gabe Beck was unable to attend the ceremony, but his counsellor wrote, praising him for his persistence through adversity and for working hard to get his academic performance back on track to graduate this year.
She also wrote of his dedication to his hockey and basketball teams. A skilled player, he can always be relied upon to show up and give it his all at every single practice and game.
“The 2026 Craig Manufacturing Turnaround Award recognizes not only where he is now, but the strength, character, and commitment it took to get there,” wrote Cyr. “He has truly earned this honour.”
Ethen Williams, Southern Victoria High School, Grade 12
“Ethen didn’t just improve, he committed. He became a student who found a reason to care about his grades, about his future, and more importantly, about himself and the people around him,” said teacher Cherie Neckoway.
Williams has had a dramatic shift from his old ways of selective attendance and inattention to consistently showing up and doing his best. Now actively engaged in his studies, he has been coming in for extra support and spending his afternoons voluntarily at the Viking Learning Centre.
“Now he takes pride in his success and understands that mistakes are just a part of learning,” said Neckoway.
He is described by his friends and teachers as a hard worker, loyal, creative, hands-on, smart, respectful and an excellent problem solver.
Matvii Lutsyk, Woodstock High School, Grade 12
“Matvii initially faced the overwhelming weight of a life he hadn’t chosen,” wrote teacher Rob Wallace. “Displaced from his home and thrust into a culture that felt alien, his early high school years were defined by a profound sense of adjustment.”
Lutsyk was quiet and withdrawn when he first arrived, not only at a new school but also in a new country. Being expected to suddenly learn a new language and meet new peers can feel like an overwhelming challenge for anyone. At first, Lutsyk seemed to resist the changes, but as he entered his final year of high school, Wallace noticed a shift. He saw him form new friendships and overcome the language barrier to achieve academic success.
“Through sheer determination, he bridged the gap between two worlds, meeting the same rigorous standards as his peers,” wrote Wallace. “As he prepares to cross the stage at graduation, he does so with a hard-earned diploma and a newfound sense of independence.”
Benny Rogers, Woodstock High School, Grade 12
“Tonight I’m here to recognize a high school student whose journey is a true example of growth, perseverance and transformation,” said teacher Danielle Palmer. “[This award] is not simply about grades or attendance. It is about recognizing students who have worked hard to overcome challenges, growing and making meaningful changes that positively shape both their future but also the people around them.”
Palmer reflected on the girl who first blew through the high school a few years earlier. Calling Rogers a whirlwind filled with energy and unpredictability, lacking direction, she said that over the years she had developed into someone calmer, more focused, self-aware and confident, who engages in her studies and has a deep love of reading.
“These changes did not happen overnight. They came with perseverance, growth and a willingness to keep trying even when things were difficult,” praised Palmer.
Rogers has a passion for working with children and intends to pursue a career in education.
Riley Fish, Canterbury High School, Grade 12
Vice-Principal Paula Zegray has followed Riley Fish’s educational journey since the beginning. Throughout his 13 years at their school, she has witnessed him seeking out every opportunity to take extra support when needed and applying himself to succeed.
With a passion for the trades, he’s taken welding courses in school, as well as completed his co-op at Craig Manufacturing.
Zegray also praised Fish for his community spirit, citing his volunteering with the Canterbury Fire Department as a prime example.
“What sets Riley apart is not the absence of struggle, but his commitment to overcome it,” said Zegray. “Riley’s story sends an inspiring message to his peers: success comes to those who refuse to give up on their dreams, who have the courage to ask for help along the way, and who understand the importance of giving back to their community.”
Gordon Libby, Nackawic High School, Grade 12
“Gordon went from a challenging student to have in your classroom to a young man who was working to be trusted and respected by the adults and friends in his life,” said teacher Ryan Brewer.
Brewer praised Libby’s family for knowing how to show tough love, making him work at the mill during suspensions while still expecting him to keep up with his schoolwork. Over the last four years, he has seen noticeable improvements in Libby’s attitude toward school.
“Whether it was simply the processor growing up, his mother’s tireless efforts, finding some courses that he enjoyed, or the important lessons he learned, like trust is earned, not every action warrants a response, or respect is reciprocated, it was obvious that Gordon was trying to make a positive change of course,” said Brewer. “It was something he had to do, and he did it.”
GUEST SPEAKERS: Former Turnaround Award winner Dean White and his mother, Amy Norad
Dean White won the Craig Manufacturing Turnaround Achievement Award in 2019, when he was in Grade 5. He and his mother, Amy Norad, were invited to close out the night with their story.
“I’m very proud to be Dean’s mom,” said Norad. “Standing here tonight is emotional for me, not because the journey is easy, but because it’s hard. As a parent, it’s not easy to watch your child struggle. There were times when school was frustrating. There were times when choices were consequences. But there was one thing I always believed – Dean could do better when he was ready to believe it, too.”
She praised her son for learning to take responsibility for his actions and choosing to accept support whenever he needed it. Norad gave a heartfelt thank you to the many teachers and staff members who showed him the patience and encouragement he needed along the way.
Before handing the microphone to her son, the mother encouraged students receiving awards to never let past mistakes define their futures.
“You should be proud of yourselves. I know I was,” Dean White told recipients. “In 2019, I was a Turnaround Award recipient, just like you.”
White reminisced about his early years, marked by poor decisions that affected him and those around him. He said there came a point when he decided that things needed to change. He thanked his friends, family, and teachers for their support over the years.
“One thing you should know, the hard work never stops,” said White.
He told award winners and their families that he graduated from high school half a year ahead of schedule with a regular diploma, all while working part-time for the past three years. During the summers, he worked a full-time construction job and a part-time job in the evenings and on weekends.
He told them that he owns his own car and pays all of its expenses himself. He’s in a trades program and is well on his way to becoming a professional mechanic.
“With hard work, determination and support, I was able to reach my goals and succeed,” said White. “If there’s anything you want, go after it. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Never stop.”
