Volunteer of the Year

Pickering College teacher named FIRST LEGO League Explore Volunteer of the Year

Pickering College is proud to announce that Sarah Demarco, Grade 3 teacher, has been named the 2024–25 FIRST LEGO League Explore Volunteer of the Year by FIRST Robotics Canada.

Sarah leads the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Explore robotics program at Pickering College and has played a pivotal role in inspiring young students to think creatively, work collaboratively, and explore the fundamentals of STEM through hands-on learning. In addition to implementing the program in her classroom, Sarah also took the initiative to host a FIRST LEGO League Explore Festival, which included seven teams from outside of Pickering College. This event provided students with the opportunity to showcase their robotics learning and celebrate their achievements.

"We are so proud of Sarah for receiving this well-deserved recognition from FIRST Robotics Canada. Her passion, creativity and commitment to student learning embody the values we hold dear at Pickering College,” says Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School. “Through her leadership of the FLL Explore program, Sarah has not only inspired students to think critically and collaborate but has also built a strong, supportive community that celebrates curiosity and innovation."

In a statement from FIRST Robotics Canada, Sarah was recognized for her “continued dedication to program implementation” and the significant impact she has made on the wider FIRST community.  Sarah will be formally presented with the award by FIRST Robotics Canada at a future event during the upcoming season.

“Thank you, FIRST Robotics Canada, for this incredible honour,” says Sarah Demarco, award recipient and Pickering College faculty. “I'm truly grateful and inspired to keep supporting young innovators!”