Woodstock’s Lesley Anthony among those recognized for advancing inclusive literacy practices and inspiring learners across the province
Two New Brunswickers have been awarded 2026 Council of the Federation Literacy Awards for their dedication to championing literacy and lifelong learning.
“Literacy is about giving people the skills and confidence they need to succeed at school, at work and in their communities,” said Premier Susan Holt.
“Improving literacy is a priority for our government because when New Brunswickers have the opportunity to learn and grow, our whole province benefits. Nicole Poirier and Lesley Anthony are making a real difference for learners across our province, and I am pleased to celebrate their achievements and the impact of their work.”
Holt presented the awards to Anthony of Woodstock and Poirier of Shediac during a ceremony on Sept. 16, in Fredericton.
Presented annually by Canada’s premiers, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award recognizes outstanding achievements, innovative practices and excellence in literacy. Since its creation in 2004, the award has honoured learners, educators, volunteers, community organizations and businesses across Canada for their commitment to strengthening literacy and lifelong learning.
“Strong literacy skills are the foundation for lifelong success and learning,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson.
“Lesley Anthony and Nicole Poirier exemplify the dedication, creativity and leadership that help students develop confidence as readers and learners. Their work is making a meaningful difference in schools, families and communities across New Brunswick, and we are proud to see their contributions recognized nationally.”
Anthony has dedicated nearly three decades to improving literacy access for students who are blind or have low vision. Working with the Atlantic Provinces Special Education Authority, she has pushed for inclusive literacy practices, including braille instruction, assistive technology and adapted learning resources. She has also led innovative virtual initiatives that connect learners across Atlantic Canada and support student engagement and belonging.
“Most teachers will tell you that they don’t do the work for recognition. It’s really a passion. So lots of teachers’ work goes unrecognized every day,” said Anthony.
“To be recognized, first of all, by my peers, to think enough of me to nominate me was really special for me. To realize that there are organizations out there that are seeing the good work that’s being done and recognizing it feels really special.”
Poirier, a learning support teacher at École Abbey-Landry in Memramcook, has become a leading advocate for literacy among young learners. Through language clinics, family engagement and partnerships with community organizations, she has encouraged a lifelong love of reading and writing. As a published children’s author, she also promotes the French language and literacy through educational activities across the province.
Each award came with a $150 donation to a literacy organization of the winner’s choosing. Anthony has granted her prize to the Woodstock Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that delivers free books to children in the region.
The recognition aligns with the provincial government’s efforts to improve literacy outcomes and strengthen learning opportunities for students. Promoting and supporting literacy programs – including programs for adults – is also meant to help address workforce needs in the province. As part of this, the government is supporting unemployed and underemployed New Brunswickers to upskill the labour force.
Each recipient receives a certificate signed by the premier and a Council of the Federation Literacy Award medallion.
The Council of the Federation comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers. It enables premiers to collaborate on issues important to Canadians, foster constructive relationships among governments, and provide leadership on key priorities.
