Blyth Academy 2025 Excellence Awards: Celebrating Leadership, Learning & Community

At Blyth Academy, we believe that exceptional people shape exceptional experiences. Each year, we proudly recognize staff members who go above and beyond to support our students, enrich our school communities, and embody our core values through our Excellence Awards. 

Recipients are nominated by their peers and school leaders and selected based on a set of rigorous criteria, including their impact on student success, contributions to school culture, and demonstration of leadership, care, and collaboration.

The 2025 award winners exemplify what it means to be an outstanding member of the Blyth Academy community.  

CEO’s Award of Distinction for Teaching Excellence Award

Krista Guescini, Teacher & Head of Department – Blyth Academy The Glebe & Blyth Academy Orbit

Krista is a math teacher who creates a welcoming and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to grow. Her ability to connect with learners of all backgrounds and her leadership as a department head have had a lasting impact on both students and staff. 

“Krista is the teacher who knows how to reach each student who sits in front of her. Her energy and ability to engage students ensure that even those who don’t love math are happy to attend class and try their hardest. She is consistent, reliable, and full of a sense of purpose. As Head of Department, she’s been invaluable in mentoring staff and shaping best practices. Krista is truly the cream of the crop.” 
— Kristy Larose-Despault, Principal, Blyth Academy The Glebe & Orbit 

“Math used to be daunting for me. But walking into Mrs. G’s class, I always felt safe and supported. She helped me believe that everyone can do math. She sacrificed hours at the end of the day or in her lunch breaks to help me with any content that I thought was difficult from the previous class. Today, I’m studying Sustainable Agriculture in Sweden, and I carry with me the confidence she instilled.” 
— Class of 2021 Alum 

Kevin Hulbert, Teacher – Blyth Academy Mississauga

Kevin is known for his inclusive teaching style and ability to build strong, lasting relationships with students. His classroom is a place of encouragement, growth, and discovery. 

“Kevin exemplifies what it means to be an educator. Students regularly express how supported, seen, and inspired they feel in his classroom. His positive energy, inclusive approach, and genuine enthusiasm for teaching made a profound difference in their confidence, motivation, and love for learning. He's credited with helping them build leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills that extend well beyond the classroom. Mr. Hulbert is a teacher of exceptional caliber and an asset to Blyth Academy.” 
— Nicholas Catania, Principal, Blyth Academy Mississauga 

Emerging Leader Award  

Taylor Kitchen, Guidance Counsellor – Blyth Academy Burlington 

Taylor is a rising leader whose professionalism and initiative have made her a cornerstone of the Burlington campus. She regularly steps into leadership roles and is deeply respected by students, staff, and parents alike. 

“Not only is Taylor an exemplary Guidance Counsellor who addresses all aspects of her job with professionalism and a high degree of detail, but she also goes above and beyond her role in promoting Blyth Academy's mission, vision and values. Taylor is quick to assume a leadership role on campus, both assisting the Principal and Campus Administrator, and at times filling in for either of those two roles. She enjoys the respect from all staff and is spoken of highly by the students and parent community. ” 
— Dan Compagnon, Principal, Blyth Academy Burlington 

Excellence in Teamwork Award   

Stan Cohen, Teacher & Head of Department: English – Blyth Academy Burlington

For the second year in a row, Stan is recognized for his collaborative spirit and leadership. He supports teachers across all campuses, mentors new staff, and fosters a positive school culture. 

“Stan is the English Department Head for all Blyth campuses. At Blyth - Burlington, he supports all staff in a variety of ways. He coordinates and supports student teachers from local Faculties of Education, and he mentors and supports newly hired teachers, providing valuable on-boarding tips and guidance. He also leads the Assessment and Evaluation coordination for all campus teachers. Stan also created and actively manages the Positivity Board in the staff room. He uses this to post good news items which, in turn, contribute to a positive school culture. He coordinates our staff WhatsApp group thereby allowing staff to communicate closely with one another, celebrate successes, share good news, facilitate supportive relationships and build cohesion and coherence across our team.” 
— Dan Compagnon, Principal, Blyth Academy Burlington  

Excellence in Student Experience Award   

Clarissa Chaston, Teacher – Blyth Academy Burlington 

Clarissa is the driving force behind a vibrant and inclusive student life at Blyth Burlington. From coordinating Middle School programming to leading Student Council events, her work ensures students feel connected and engaged. 

“Clarissa Chaston is our Grade 6/7 classroom teacher and our Middle School Program Lead. She coordinates Middle School programming and plans field trips and other co-curricular events for our students in grades 6 to 8. She works closely with her teaching partner to ensure the campus' Middle School Program is high-level. In addition, Clarissa is the Staff Liaison for our campus' Student Council. She works with students from all grades (6–12) to coordinate Student Council activities and events. They have ranged from Twin Day, Anything but a Backpack Day, Orange Shirt Day, Mental Health Awareness Week, Christmas activities, Earth Week activities, Pride Month, Year End trip to Scotiabank Center, and Year-end BBQ. Everything she has coordinated has been extremely well-run and has enjoyed high levels of student participation. She is extremely committed to ensuring the student experience at Blyth - Burlington is vibrant, inclusive and engaging.” 
— Dan Compagnon, Principal, Blyth Academy Burlington 

Excellence in Innovation Award   

Sarah Black, Vice Principal – Blyth Academy Lawrence Park 

As Vice Principal, Sarah has successfully managed Blyth Academy’s in-person and virtual Night and Summer School programs, delivering high-quality educational experiences to hundreds of students, even amidst a province-wide teacher shortage. Her ability to maintain excellence while navigating complex logistics is nothing short of remarkable.

“Sarah has managed the intricate administrative tasks associated with our Night and Summer School programs with grace and precision. She’s also a vital presence in our full-time program, offering guidance and support to students and staff alike. From organizing a successful 15th Anniversary Event to launching a popular weekly run club and inter-campus sports events, Sarah brings energy, creativity, and compassion to everything she does. She has been a steadying force through times of transition, and her leadership has been invaluable.” 
— Michael Booth, Principal, Blyth Academy Lawrence Park 

Gold Standard Award of Excellence   

Andrew Hall, Guidance Counsellor – Blyth Academy The Glebe & Blyth Academy Orbit

Andrew Hall has been a dedicated and compassionate presence at Blyth Academy for over a decade. As a guidance counsellor, he is known for his calm demeanor, attention to detail, and deep care for every student he supports. His impact is felt not only by students and families, but also by colleagues who rely on his wisdom and support. 

“Andrew accomplishes all this with sincerity and humility and zero expectation of recognition. He exemplifies the student experience, people-first culture, and it is my very strong opinion that he deserves the recognition.”
— Kristy Larose-Despault, Principal, Blyth Academy The Glebe & Orbit
 

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Celebrating Our Educators   

These five educators—Krista, Kevin, Taylor, Stan, Clarissa, and Sarah—represent the heart of Blyth Academy. Their passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence inspire us all. We are proud to honour their achievements and thank them for their extraordinary contributions to our school communities. 

Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients!