Woman standing in front of living wall

LAKELAND - Lakeland Catholic has named its second recipient of the LCSD Excellence in Catholic Education Support Staff Award - Sylvia Prefontaine.

Prefontaine is currently a Student Assistant at École Notre Dame High School. She joined Lakeland Catholic 25 years ago in order to find a better balance between her work and home schedules.

“Once I was in the education system, I knew I had chosen the right career path. I have achieved many of my goals in making a difference in lives of others at NDHS. I believe today that this was my true calling,” Prefontaine said.

With each new group of students, Prefontaine’s passion and love for her career is “reinvigorated.”

“I am able to see them flourish as they become young,  independent adults. I love to see my past students in the community as they start their lives after high school. Every student I work with leaves an imprint on my heart that continues to impact me today,” she added.

The LCSD Excellence in Catholic Education Support Staff Award is presented to a support staff employee who is active in their parish and faith life, works collaboratively with colleagues and their parish, demonstrates knowledge and integration of the teachers of the Catholic Church, is involved in professional and spiritual growth activities, and demonstrates caring for the well-being of students and colleagues, among others.

“It is such an honour. It’s quite flattering that my peers would nominate me for such an award. This career has always been so rewarding in my heart, but I never realized that my presence was so rewarding to those around me,” Prefontaine said. “This award has a profound effect on me, making me feel treasured as a member of the NDHS staff.”

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness.

John 8:12