David McKay Awards
In 1988, I was very fortunate to be a student teacher in Mr. McKay’s class. In the short few weeks, Mr. McKay taught me everything to become a successful math/science teacher. Without his guidance, I would never learn how to manage a class and teach math effectively without relying on visual aids like plums and apples.
The David McKay award recognizes two outstanding students, one male and one female, for their achievements in the STEM area. The recipients not only must have good marks, but they must also demonstrate a sense of curiosity and determination to acquire mathematical and scientific knowledge on a regular basis.
In the past few months, I am very pleased to inform everyone that more than 40 students have shown up regularly for my lunchtime math enrichment activities. Some actually have a head start on the grade 9 math curriculum, and I sincerely congratulate them for their effort. For spending your lunch time with a boring math teacher and trying to understand exponential laws, linear equations and partial variations, I praise all those who attend my lessons at lunch this year, and Mr. McKay will be very pleased to hear that.
A few students actually have an additional commitment to do even more. Three students successfully completed the Grade 9 math curriculum in a few weeks, and they passed the final exam with ease. Their effort and determination will be rewarded next year in high school.
One talented individual went farther than all others. Within a month, she learned the G9 and 10 math curriculum and passed two very difficult Kwok exams with a score of 95% and 97%. As we speak, she is now learning how to tackle the G11 Sinusoidal functions in Ferris Wheels, water tides and blood pressure. Moreover, in two math contests this year, she achieved the highest scores in Cummer Valley and was awarded a distinction certificate from the University of Waterloo. Tonight, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Jinru Liu for her passion and talents in learning mathematics and science. Please give her a round of applause.
Undoubtedly, the second recipient's out-of-this-world determination is undeniable. In my 35 years of teaching, no sick students have ever come back to school just to attend the last science class of the day. Without a question, this student’s desire to learn and acquire knowledge is beyond your imagination. During the MacKenzie’s Olympia, he pays attention to the minutness of every event so his brilliance becomes magnificent. Please give a round of applause to Muhammod Butt from 8B.
Finally, a message to all the graduates this year: please work hard, try to learn as much math as possible, since mathematics is the foundation of financial literacy. In the future, if there is anything I can help you with, you know where to find me. Thank you.
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