Local news delivered daily to your email inbox. Subscribe for FREE to the rdnewsNOW newsletter.
L-R: Linda Downey receiving her award, and with some of her students. (Supplied)
LINDA DOWNEY

Red Deer Catholic teacher receives Excellence in Catholic Education Award

Mar 28, 2025 | 4:29 PM

Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) is pleased to announce that Linda Downey, a Grade Three teacher and faith coach at Holy Family School, has been awarded the Excellence in Catholic Education Award by the Council of Catholic School Superintendents of Alberta (CCSSA).

This award is presented annually to teachers who demonstrate a commitment to nurturing the faith of Alberta’s youth and guiding them to become upstanding Catholic citizens. The recognition highlights those educators who go above and beyond in their efforts to encourage spiritual growth and moral development in their students.

“I am very humbled to receive this award,” said Downey. “It is a privilege to teach in a school division where I am able to share and grow in my faith alongside my students, colleagues, and parents. Having my faith embedded throughout my workday is a blessing beyond measure; one that I give thanks for every day. It is an honour to serve in this role and I am grateful for all who have supported, and continue to support me on this journey.”

Officials say Downey’s passion for both teaching and faith are evident in every aspect of her work. This year, she is leading a school-wide faith retreat with music, games and worship, meant to foster a deeper spiritual connection among students, staff and families.

Downey also coordinates school masses, liturgies and faith-based assemblies while guiding colleagues in faith-based professional development.

“Linda embodies the heart of Catholic education. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a faith-filled environment is evident in everything she does. She leads with joy and humility, inspiring both students and staff to live their faith authentically. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our Holy Family family,” said Stacey Martz, vice-principal of Holy Family School.

Outside of school, she has served as a proclaimer and eucharistic minister at St. Mary’s Parish and, with her husband, supports the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the rdnewsNOW newsletter here. You can also download the rdnewsNOW mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.