Boyne Public School’s Peter Marshall: One of Canada’s Outstanding Principals

Peter Marshall, Principal of Boyne Public School in Milton, has been named one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals for 2018 by The Learning Partnership, an organization which honours the unique and vital contribution of principals in publicly-funded schools.

“Peter Marshall is a dedicated leader who puts student success and happiness first,” says Stuart Miller, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board. “His desire to ensure students, staff and the community come together to provide an inclusive learning environment where students feel welcome and encouraged speaks to his leadership and teamwork skills. He joins a group of outstanding principals and educators from the Halton District School Board who have received this award.”

Each year, 40 principals across the country are recognized for demonstrating innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and for their remarkable efforts toward improving public education. Recipients attend a five-day executive leadership training program at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management in late February.

“It is an honour to be recognized by The Learning Partnership,” says Marshall. “It is humbling to read some of the kind comments written by students, families and staff about the work we have been doing at Boyne Public School. There are so many wonderful administrators within our Board and this really is an indication of the great work throughout the Halton District School Board. I feel very fortunate to be in an amazing school with terrific children, supportive families and hard-working staff.”

Marshall’s nomination was supported by students, parents, school staff and colleagues.

​In the nomination package sent to The Learning Partnership, parents of students at Boyne Public School described Marshall as someone who enables their children to realize their full potential and contribute to society in meaningful ways. Students said Marshall continuously strives to improve their learning environment and teaches them the importance of connecting with others and that one simple action can impact a community for the better.

Under Marshall’s leadership, Boyne Public School opened in September 2015. He built the school’s culture on three concepts: Work hard, be nice, and make a difference. Students, staff and parents credit this culture for fostering an environment that is a welcoming and caring place for children.

Staff members speak about Marshall’s ability to promote progress and engage educators in their capacity to effect positive change and growth. His colleagues say his knowledge of the curriculum and research-based practice is driven by caring and empathy, which results in his effective leadership style.

This is the fourth consecutive year Halton District School Board principals have received a Canada’s Outstanding Principals award: Alka Sahai (2015), Michelle Newlands (2016), and Loui Silvestri and Andrea Taylor (both 2017). The Learning Partnership invites nominations of outstanding principals from school boards, colleagues, parents, teachers, students and community members.

The Learning Partnership is a national charity dedicated to enhancing publicly-funded education to prepare students in Canada for a globally connected world by building partnerships between government, education and business.