Karol Cabaj-Martin Honored with Excellence in Catholic Education Award

St. Paul Education and the Board of Trustees is pleased to announce Mrs. Karol Cabaj-Martin​, ​Principal ​at the St. Paul Elementary Community School, as the recipient of the 20​20​ Excellence in Catholic Education Award.

The Excellence in Catholic Education Award recognizes Catholic teachers in Alberta who have done an exemplary job in preparing our youth to grow into outstanding Catholic citizens. Karol’s commitment to Catholic education and to the care of our students is evident in everything she does. Her nominators have said that Karol has a great desire and works to ensure the dignity of all children, especially the most vulnerable. As an administrator, having spent time in her career in elementary, junior and senior high settings, Karol is keenly aware of the impact of adverse childhood experiences and the turmoil that results. She is empathetic and sensitive to a child's needs and endeavours to teach them the skills they require with prayerful attention, encountering them where they are at. She works collaboratively with staff and family members for the best interests of children. Karol puts the well-being of her staff members as a priority in order to ensure the needs of the students are met.

Karol is a strong advocate for the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth of students which led her and her school team to be awarded with the National Inclusive Education Award in 2018. Her participation in spiritual growth activities has helped her deepen her knowledge and understanding of the marks of a Catholic school, educator and leader living them out in all aspects of her life. Karol also leads in the parish through her past role in Sunday school, and currently serves as greeter and participates actively with the children’s music ministry. She fosters this ministry through her leadership role in the elementary school choir which sings on a regular rotation at Sunday mass.

As a busy mom of four children, Karol has worked to instill in her children the understanding that they have a right and duty to participate in their school and extended community. Whether volunteering with local organizations to set up and run local events or participating in events like highway clean up, Karol has accompanied her own children and others in the community in their involvement for the common good.

As we celebrate Catholic Education Week, we would like to congratulate Karol on receiving this reward. Thank you for your dedication to Catholic education!