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Thank you, Doreen, for that introduction and for all your work at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

And thank you to Ministers Duclos and Hussen for being with us today. Jean-Yves and Ahmed, I know that you’re always there when it comes to ensuring our young people have the tools they need to succeed. We’re all grateful for that.

And of course, most importantly, thank you to all the teachers who are joining us. As a former teacher myself, it gives me particular pleasure to be here to acknowledge your incredible efforts in the past year, and throughout your career.

But let’s be honest for a moment, this has been a tough year.

Tough for parents. Tough for kids. And of course, tough for teachers.

That’s why today, more than ever, I want to take a moment to thank you – for your resilience, your compassion, and your devotion.

As teachers, not only do you constantly keep up with new generations in your classrooms, you keep up with new technologies, new trends, and new ways of seeing the world.

Last year, when everything suddenly changed, you adapted again. You used your creativity and your perseverance to keep our students connected and motivated.

For that, on behalf of parents across the country, I want to say thank you.    

We've all known someone in high school who didn’t like math or physics, but then ended up becoming an accountant or an engineer. We’ve also all known someone who wanted to drop out, but ended up graduating with their diploma.

But every time, the one factor that was often most responsible for changing the course of their life – the catalyst – was a great teacher.

Because in addition to teaching, advising, listening, and coaching, a teacher’s role is to inspire.  

Teachers inspire students to become the leaders and bold innovators we need both today, and tomorrow.

And as we rebuild our country and our world from this pandemic, that’s something we’re going to need more than ever.

When you go into work, or when you log into Zoom, you teach our kids that they can make a positive difference in the world, no matter what path they choose. And that’s a gift.

Our government knows how hard you’ve been working.

We are aware of all the efforts you’ve made and the risks you’ve taken in terms of your health over the past year. That’s why we helped the provinces and territories protect you with the Safe Return to Class Fund.

You’re there for our young people and we’re going to continue being there for you.

Day in, day out, you make sure our kids are set up for success. As a government, that’s what we’re focused on, too.

In our 2021 budget, we’ve invested in training programs, financial assistance, and disability support for students and young people. This is funding that’ll make it easier for them to study, find jobs, and connect with employers.

And while we help students prepare for their future, we’re also investing in their well-being for today.

That’s why, for example, we’re funding mental health projects for groups who’ve been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, including young people. As we rebuild, we’re going to make sure that everyone has a real and fair chance at success.

Today, with the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence, we’re honouring your dedication and your outstanding careers.

From kindergarten to college, teachers nurture the curiosity that is part of what makes our country so strong – a Canada where young people ask questions, challenge themselves, and live their dreams.

So to all the recipients today, thank you for the extra hours, for your dedication, and your drive. And above all, thank you to all of you and to all the extraordinary teachers across the country for staying inspired, and for inspiring our kids every single day.

It’s an honour and a pleasure to be here with you and I can’t wait to hear you. Thank you everyone.