2019-2020

Jamie Glass, a law teacher at Middlefield Collegiate Institute in the York Region District School Board, is the recipient of the 2019 Chief Justices’ Award.

An inspiring and innovative teacher of law and civics for 21 years, Mr. Glass began his career as a criminal lawyer. 

His students describe his classrooms as lively and engaged.  Many comment that they appreciate his efforts to understand the challenges of the diverse student population and tailor his teaching style to individual needs.

Teachers mention his generosity in sharing knowledge and expertise.  While a new teacher, he founded the Ontario Law Teacher’s Assistance Network (OLTAN), a network of law teachers across Ontario who share lessons, ideas, and teaching tools.  He taught the online Senior Basic Law Additional Qualification course for the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and developed the OISE Law course, currently accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers.

Justice sector professionals applaud his leadership in the area of equity initiatives, commenting that he promoted “Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging” well before it became a popular social policy.   He was instrumental in organizing forums, conferences and programs designed to help teachers better understand and engage students who are racialized, underserved or marginalized. 

Jamie Glass has made exceptional contributions to promoting public understanding of the justice system. We congratulate him on becoming the fifteenth recipient of the OJEN Chief Justices’ Award!