RETSD Teacher Lindsay Boyko Recognized as Early Years Physical Educator of the Year

“The gymnasium is the heartbeat of the school, where learning, movement and joy come together,” said Lindsay Boyko, a physical education teacher at Bertrun E. Glavin School who was recently recognized as the early years physical educator of the year by Physical and Health Educators (PHE) Manitoba.

Tim Au, RETSD’s Physical Education/Health Consultant, nominated Lindsay for the award, which was received on October 23 at PHE Manitoba’s annual award ceremony.

“Lindsay’s leadership extends beyond the walls of her school as she has served as the divisional Early Years Physical Education committee chairperson for the past three years, and has always supported her colleagues in developing engaging, student-centered approaches that align with curriculum goals,” said Tim. “In the gym, she designs engaging lessons that build skills, confidence, and a love for movement.”

Lindsay started teaching 21 years ago after receiving her education degree from Minnesota State University in Mankato, Minnesota. She received a scholarship to attend the university as part of their golf team. After graduating, she taught in the north for two years, then did a short stretch with a private school in Winnipeg.

“My mom asked me how I knew what I wanted to do,” said Lindsay, who was a multisport athlete while growing up in Brandon, Manitoba. “And honestly, phys ed was the only thing I could see myself doing. I love sports and I love being active; to be able to put these things in a job is the best thing ever. I also love seeing students find success. It makes me feel like a superhero.” 

Lindsay joined Bertrun E. Glavin in 2015 and has remained there since. Besides teaching physical education to the school’s students, she is an innovative and engaged member of the school community. She says that her legacy will be the Gator-Thon, an annual walk or run event that she coordinates. Last year, more than 3,000 people from the community participated. In June, the funds raised from the event were used to build a swing set for the school.

Lindsay said it was overwhelming and humbling to learn she was getting the award.

“Reading the email made me pause,” she said. “I teared up and my heart was beating faster. It makes me appreciate the work I do even more.”

As a student, Lindsay played club volleyball and ringette and nearly all the sports offered at school. Nowadays, she stays active with long distance running. She has competed in a number of marathons, including Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, and the Manitoba Marathon.

Lindsay believes that the education her students receive in the gym contributes to their lifelong success and happiness. She had three words of wisdom to offer – not only to students, but to everyone.

“Keep on moving!”