Celebrating outstanding leadership in Ontario schools.
The Ontario Teachers' Insurance Plan (OTIP) Principal and Vice-Principal Awards honour leaders in Ontario’s English public school system, including school authorities and provincial schools, who go above and beyond to create caring, vibrant and innovative school environments. Each year, one principal and one vice-principal will be recognized.
Nominations are now being accepted in both categories:
- Principal and
- Vice-Principal.
Award Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:
- Visionary leadership: Provides clear direction, inspires others and champions student success.
- Positive and inclusive school culture: Promotes equity, well-being and a sense of belonging for all students and staff.
- Innovation and collaboration: Encourages creative thinking, continuous improvement and teamwork across the school community.
- Strong community partnerships: Builds meaningful relationships that enhance learning, safety and well-being.
How to Make a Nomination
- Review the eligibility requirements to ensure your nominee qualifies
- Gather all required information before starting your nomination
- Complete the online nomination form with the following information
- Provide two references who can speak to the nominee’s leadership and impact
- Make sure to notify your nominee before submitting!
- Provide specific examples—describe real moments of leadership and impact
- (Optional) Submit additional materials such as letters of support, photos or videos by emailing
2026 Key Dates
- Nominations open February 9
- Nominations close March 31
- Winners announced September
- Awards presented at the OPC President’s Dinner on October 22
FAQs
Questions? Check out our FAQs below or email admin@principals.ca.
| Who can make a nomination? |
| Anyone connected to the school community may nominate a principal or vice-principal, including teachers, education workers, students (current or former), parents/guardians/caregivers, administrators and community members. |
| Who can be nominated (i.e. eligibility criteria)? |
|
Eligible nominees must be current principals or vice-principals who are Members of the Ontario Principals' Council (OPC). Nominations are open to full-time, active principals and vice-principals who are Regular Members of the Ontario Principals’ Council (OPC), excluding those in acting (interim) vice-principal roles and who are in good standing with both the OPC and the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). |
| How do I make a nomination? |
| Nominations can be submitted online using the nomination form. |
| Who can serve as a reference? |
| References may include colleagues, students, parents/ guardians/ caregivers, administrators or community members who can speak to the nominee’s leadership and positive impact. Two references are required. |
|
What do the award winners receive? |
| Each award recipient will receive a $1,000 CAD personal award and a Certificate of Recognition, presented at the OPC President’s Dinner Award recipients will also be featured on the OPC and OTIP websites. |
|
When are the winners announced? |
| Winners will be announced on OTIP’s website and in the OPC’s email to Members and Associates, as well as the President’s Message in October each year. |
|
How do I confirm that the nominee is an OCT Member in good standing? |
| You can search the OCT's public register by name here. |
| How do I confirm that the nominee is an OPC Member in good standing? |
|
As part of the review process, OPC staff will search the internal database to confirm that the nominee is an OPC Member in good standing. |
| Which school boards are represented by English public schools? |
|
The following school boards, including Provincial Schools and School Authorities: Algoma District School Board |
|
Additional Information |
|
Selected winners and their nominators will be asked to sign a publicity release and take part in photography or video content related to the awards. |
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to March 31, 2026, to legal residents of Canada (excluding Quebec) who meet the eligibility requirements. For full details, please refer to the official rules and regulations.
Contact(s)
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