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By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

long-time teacher

Notre Dame teacher Alison Snow receives national teaching excellence award

Oct 15, 2025 | 10:40 AM

Red Deer teacher Alison Snow has been announced as a recipient of a certificate of achievement — part of the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence.

Snow, who teaches grades 9-12 at École Secondaire Notre Dame High School, is department head for the school’s Foundations Program.

Known for her empathy and leadership, the program supports students with complex needs.

Snow is the creator of the school’s groundbreaking Unified Sports program, which pairs students with and without disabilities to promote leadership, inclusion, and athletic participation.

The program has led to jamborees with schools across Red Deer Catholic, and with Red Deer Public, not to mention the chance to expand Unified Sports across the province.

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“My focus has always been on inclusion, connection, and creating meaningful opportunities for students with complex needs. I strive to build programming that celebrates ability, fosters independence, and bridges our students into the school community and beyond,” says Snow, adding it’s a true honour to be recognized this way.

“Whether through student-run businesses, community volunteering, or Unified Sports, I aim to show that every learner, regardless of ability, has gifts worth sharing. I also believe in mentoring staff and developing a collaborative team culture so that our support network for students is as strong as possible.”

Other achievements of Snow’s include founding the Blendations Coffee Cart, a student-run venture offering hands-on experience in customer service, communication and teamwork.

Further, Snow developed and implemented the Seamless Support Program, which offers skill assessments, interventions, and community-based employment opportunities for students.

Snow has been a teacher at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools for 23 years.