Congratulations to the 2026 PUC Student Safety Award Winners

Sault Ste. Marie, ON (June 29, 2026) — PUC Services Inc. is proud to recognize 23 outstanding Grade 8 students as recipients of the 2026 PUC Student Safety Awards. Each recipient has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and responsible school community, making a positive impact on those around them.

Returning for its fifth year, the Student Safety Awards invite all schools with Grade 8 classes in PUC’s service area to recognize students who consistently demonstrate leadership through their actions and serve as positive role models for their peers. Nominated by their teachers, recipients must show a strong commitment to fostering supportive, inclusive, and respectful learning environments while encouraging others to make safe and responsible choices.

“These students demonstrate that leadership is not defined by age, but by the choices we make every day,” said Janis Gartshore, PUC Manager, Safety and Operational Support. “Whether they are helping a classmate, promoting inclusion, or setting a positive example for others, they are helping create stronger, safer school communities. Their actions today are shaping the leaders our communities will rely on tomorrow.”

Established in 2022, the awards are part of PUC’s ongoing commitment to promoting a culture of safety and responsibility throughout the community we serve. By recognizing students at an early age, the program encourages lifelong awareness of the importance of personal responsibility, community engagement, and looking out for the well-being of others.

Each award recipient received a personalized plaque and commemorative gift in recognition of their achievement.

PUC congratulates all 23 recipients and thanks the educators, families, caregivers, and school communities who continue to encourage and support student leadership throughout the region.

For more information about this program, please visit Student Safety Awards | PUC Services Inc.