2026 Dr. John Dolan Spirit of Inclusion Award: Nathan Brooks and the Mayfield Campus of Montessori School of Regina

June 25, 2026

Inclusion Saskatchewan is pleased to present the 2026 Dr. John Dolan Spirit of Inclusion Award to Nathan Brooks and the Mayfield Campus of Montessori School of Regina. This award recognizes people and groups who think outside of the box and embody the true spirit of inclusive education — creating environments where every child is welcomed, valued, and supported to thrive.

Nathan Brooks and the Mayfield Campus of Montessori School of Regina, demonstrates that spirit in deeply meaningful ways. Their nomination came directly from a family whose child had previously been denied entry into several early learning programs because of his disability. Rather than seeing barriers, Nathan and the team at Mayfield Campus saw possibility. The school worked closely with the family to secure additional funding so their son could access the one-on-one support he needed in the Pre-Primary program. They took extraordinary care to ensure the support person was not only qualified, but also the right fit for the child — someone who would help him feel safe, understood, and genuinely included.

What makes this school community especially remarkable is their responsiveness and creativity. They are knowledgeable, adaptable, and committed to meeting each student’s unique needs. Whether through environmental adaptations, individualized programming, or creative approaches to academic learning, they consistently demonstrate that inclusion is about belonging, participation, and dignity.

Perhaps the most powerful reflection came from the student’s parent, who shared, “My son now sees himself as a kind, capable, and intelligent little boy. He believes he belongs in the classroom, that his ideas and voice matter, and that he is worthy of friendships, respect, and unconditional inclusion.” Those words capture the lasting impact of true inclusion. Inclusive education changes not only access to learning, but also how children see themselves and their place in the world.