The York Catholic District School Board proudly celebrates Ms. Christina Iorio, an innovative and inspiring educator from St. Augustine Catholic High School, who has been recognized as a 2025 Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM recipient.
Principal Cocchetto describes Ms. Iorio as “a trailblazer for her groundbreaking ability to integrate the traditional study of Canadian history with STEM learning. Her exemplary teaching practices inspire her students and motivate teachers who have worked with her, and she serves as a role model for educators across Canada.”
A Trailblazer in Teaching and Faith
As a leader in St. Augustine’s STREAM Focus Program, Ms. Iorio blends history, technology and creativity in ways that deepen student engagement and faith-based learning. Her innovative approach enables students not only to study Canada’s past but also to experience it through robotics, coding, and design thinking, helping them see the connections between history, innovation and moral responsibility in the modern world.
Watch the video below to hear Ms. Iorio describe one of her hands-on projects, where students use spheral bolts to recreate the Juno Beach landing during World War II. Through coding and simulation, students gain a deeper understanding of the courage, strategy and sacrifice that shaped this pivotal moment in history. This interactive approach enables students to learn in a manner similar to how historians of the future might, through digital storytelling and active exploration.
Inspiring Students and Educators Alike
Beyond her classroom, Ms. Iorio extends her passion for education through her professional Instagram account and YouTube channel, “That Canadian Teacher,” where she shares innovative instructional tools and resources with educators across the country. Her inclusive approach ensures that the diverse stories and voices of Canadians are represented in every lesson, and her mentorship continues to strengthen teaching excellence across Ontario.
Building Leaders and Lifelong Learners
Ms. Iorio’s influence extends well beyond her own classroom. As Department Head, she mentors colleagues, leads professional development across Ontario, and empowers students through extracurricular activities, such as the Reach for the Top trivia team. Her guidance has helped students earn distinctions such as the Vimy Pilgrimage Award and inspired many to pursue studies in both STEM and the humanities.
Her work embodies the mission of Catholic education, to nurture minds and hearts grounded in knowledge, compassion and faith. Through her example, students are reminded that learning is not only about mastering skills but about understanding one another and recognizing the hand of God in all things.
Congratulations
The York Catholic District School Board extends heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Christina Iorio on this well-deserved honour. Her passion and faith-filled leadership exemplify the very best of Catholic education, inspiring both students and staff to utilize their God-given talents and live out their shared commitment to excellence and service.