Violet Shearer (Award)

Jaidyn Clipperton (Scholarship)

Violet Shearer is a retired music teacher who spent nearly 30 years with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB). In May 2016, after leading students in a performance of “Land of the Silver Birch,” a few parent complaints led to the performance being labeled “inappropriate and racist” by school administration. She filed a defamation lawsuit, fighting for over 8.5 years to clear her name. In October 2024, she reached a settlement that included a public apology and the right to speak openly about her case.

Shearer is honoured to be the recipient of the 2025 Richard Bilkszto award. She is currently enrolled in a full time, 12 month accelerated paralegal program at college as a “retirement project”. Her goal is to become a paralegal with a focus in education law, which will include independent legal representation for educators. She plans to allocate the award money towards her legal textbooks for her classes at paralegal school.

Jaidyn Clipperton is a first-year student in the Concurrent Education program at Niagara University, located in Lewiston, New York. Growing up in Georgetown, Ontario, Jaidyn is now working toward her lifelong goal of becoming a teacher - someone who not only educates but inspires, uplifts, and makes a lasting difference in the lives of her students. She is deeply passionate about creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment where all learners feel seen and supported.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Jaidyn is a proud member of the Niagara University women’s hockey team, where she continues to develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork - qualities she knows will serve her well in her future classroom. With a strong commitment to both her studies and her sport, Jaidyn is preparing to become the kind of teacher who leaves a positive mark on every student she meets.

Carolyn Burjoski (Award)

Carolyn Burjoski is a retired teacher who worked for the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) for over 20 years. Her ouster from a board meeting on Jan. 17, 2022, drew international attention. She was ejected from the public meeting after questioning the appropriateness of materials available in elementary school libraries.

Burjoski appreciated Richard Bilkszto, who reached out to her numerous times and offered his support throughout her ordeal. She is pleased to receive the Richard Bilkszto Award and intends to use the gift to support educators who voice their concerns publicly.

Elizabeth Haas-Barota (Award)

Elizabeth Haas-Barota graduated from Etobicoke C.I. in TDSB in 1987 and completed her BA and BEd at Queen’s University in 1990. For the last 34 years, Elizabeth has taught grades 1-8 and worked as a guest lecturer in literacy instruction at the University of Toronto’s MA program.

Teaching reading is her passion. Her MA and PhD (University of Toronto) research focused on how to best support student’s emerging literacy skills and how to prepare new teachers to become insightful and effective literacy instructors.

She is the proud mother of three wonderful young adults and is deeply honoured to receive this groundbreaking award.

Thomas Corken (Scholarship)

Thomas Corken is a choral leader, educator and singer based in London, Ontario. He is the conductor of the Grand Philharmonic Youth Choir, Associate Conductor of the Grand Philharmonic Children’s Choir and Associate Conductor of the 120-voiced Grand Philharmonic Choir. He also works as a Supply Teacher for the Thames Valley District School Board in London.

Tom graduated from Western University, completing his Master’s in Choral Conducting with Dr. Mark Ramsay and Dr. Tracy Wong. He completed his undergraduate studies at McMaster University while working with the Hamilton Children’s Choir as Assistant Conductor. In September, Tom will be pursuing his Bachelor of Education at Western.