By rdnewsNOW staff

Leadership award

Two principals at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools named recipients of ATA award

May 15, 2025 | 5:09 PM

Two principals within Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools have been named recipients of the Alberta Teachers Association’s (ATA) Distinguished Leadership Award.

Andrea Gringhuis, Principal of Sylvan Lake’s École Our Lady of the Rosary School, and Teresa Borchers, Principal of St. Gregory the Great Catholic School in Blackfalds were selected by the Council for School Leadership of the ATA.

“I’m deeply honoured to receive the Distinguished Leadership Award from the Council of School Leadership,” Gringhuis said.

“Being nominated alongside respected mentors makes this especially meaningful. I am truly humbled. I’m grateful to Red Deer Catholic Regional Division for supporting my growth as a visionary leader, to the courageous staff at École Our Lady of the Rosary who have been willing to be vulnerable and grow together on a shared journey, and to the Sylvan Lake parent community for their trust and support in my leadership along the way.”

The Alberta Distinguished Leadership Award is presented to those who are exceptional school leaders. The award also celebrates creative, innovative, and effective leadership.

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Gringhuis and Borchers will be celebrated with colleagues in attendance at the awards gala in Calgary on Friday, June 6.

“I am very humbled and honored to receive the Distinguished Leadership Award from the ATA Council of School Leadership,” Borchers said.

“Leadership in education is very much a collaborative experience and a rewarding act of service. I am truly blessed to work with an amazing team, students and school community at St. Gregory the Great each day. I am grateful to Red Deer Catholic Schools for the recognition and for the many incredible people who I have had the privilege to work alongside, supporting me on my leadership journey.”

Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools Board Chair Murray Hollman said they’re proud to see the two principals recognized for their commitment to creating positive learning environments at their schools.

“On behalf of the board, I extend warmest congratulations to both Andrea and Teresa. Their passion for Catholic education and their ability to inspire those around them are truly commendable. This award rightly celebrates their significant contributions and the positive impact they have on the lives of our students and the broader Red Deer Catholic community.”