These language educators have proven dedication and innovation throughout their careers in the additional language teaching field, embodying a passion for excellence in language teaching. Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 CASLT awards!
H. H. Stern Award: Adriana Ramírez
Adriana is a Colombian author, keynote speaker, Spanish teacher, international teacher trainer, and curriculum consultant. She holds a double major in Psychology, a degree in Clinical Psychology, and a master’s degree in education. With over 22 years of classroom experience teaching ELL and Spanish at the elementary and high school levels, Adriana centres storytelling as a tool for both language acquisition and cultural understanding. Adriana has authored a series of novels written specifically for language learners, using comprehensible input methodology to help students build fluency while engaging with authentic stories. Her approach is grounded in decolonizing education, anti-racism, and equity-centred frameworks. You can connect with Adriana on Instagram @veganadri, through her website adrianaramirez.ca, or on YouTube at @learnthroughreading.
Learn more about the H. H. Stern Award
Robert Roy Award: Danielle Hunter
Danielle is a French as a second language (FSL) educator, researcher, and consultant specializing in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and the Action-Oriented Approach (AOA). Danielle’s current PhD research explores the AOA in FSL education, engaging teachers in developing action-oriented scenarios and exploring their implementation in practice. Over her 25-year career, she has authored and co-authored many pedagogical resources, including CASLT’s Action-Oriented Approach Handbook and Action-Oriented Approach Toolkit, as well as contributing to Ontario’s revised FSL curriculum. Since 2021, she has also served as a language policy expert with the Council of Europe, contributing to international work in action-oriented, plurilingual, and intercultural education.
Learn more about the Robert Roy Award
Honorary Lifetime Member Award: Janice Aubry
Janice cherishes her 34-year career as a leader at Edmonton Public Schools, spanning roles from teacher to consultant, supervisor, and director. Her passion project was designing and directing the Institute for Innovation in Second Language Education. She also served in leadership roles at Alberta Education and the University of Alberta. Janice played pivotal roles in curriculum and policy development across local, provincial, national, and international levels. Janice also served on CASLT’s Board of Directors and National Council, as well as other boards and councils dedicated to advancing language education. Janice continues to consult, advise, develop resources, and serve on boards.
