Scott Luck has been named as one of just seven recipients across Canada for the National Award for Teaching Excellence in Physical and Health Education presented by Physical and Health Education Canada

Whether it’s leading high-energy gym classes or helping students discover their passion for physical activity, PhysEd Specialist at École Central Middle Scott Luck has always focused on getting kids moving – and now, he’s being recognized for his efforts on a national level.

Scott has been named as one of just seven recipients across Canada for the National Award for Teaching Excellence in Physical and Health Education presented by Physical and Health Education Canada. The award honours exceptional teaching and leadership in promoting wellness and physical literacy in schools.

“I didn’t know that I was being nominated – I was extremely surprised when I was told I was a recipient,” said Scott. “I just go about doing my day-to-day and for others to consider me in that type of category is a big honour.”

While he had not met the other recipients before the awards ceremony, Scott said he was humbled to be in their company.

“To be grouped together with the other recipients is such an honour. They are all amazing individuals who do amazing things,” he said.

Scott’s journey to education wasn’t typical. Initially being accepted into a combined PhysEd and Education degree right out of high school, he was steered away from the field. Years later in his 20s, he returned to his calling and earned his After Degree in Education from the University of Alberta. He landed his first teaching job at the age of 28.

He began his career in Edmonton and quickly came to Red Deer teaching at Hunting Hills High School before joining École Central Middle, where he’s spent the past eight years helping students discover the joy of movement.

“I love being active. I love seeing kids be active, and figure out what they are good at. It’s extremely rewarding,” said Scott.

He believes physical and mental wellness are key to student success. “In order for a student to excel academically, they have to be well. Wellness for me is all about the balance between being physically active, mentally well, and the pursuit of happiness,” he said.

Amanda Wilson, Principal at École Central Middle, said Scott is an exceptional Phys Ed teacher who creates inclusive, high-quality programs that cater to widely diverse student needs.

“He adapts lessons using translation tools, tactile clues, auditory signals, and specialized equipment, ensuring all students, regardless of ability or challenges, can participate and experience success,” she said. “Scott goes above and beyond regularly for his students and for our school in the classroom as well as with extracurricular activities. He is instilling a lifelong love of physical activity, and transforming his students’ lives with his dedication and creativity and we are incredibly fortunate to have him at CMS.”

Government of Alberta and Judiciary representatives with special guests at the Red Deer Justice Centre plaque unveiling event April 22, 2025.

On March 3, all court services in Red Deer began operating out of the new justice centre. The new justice centre has 12 courtrooms fully built and equipped with video-conference equipment to allow witnesses to attend remotely if they cannot travel, and vulnerable witnesses to testify from outside the courtroom.

The new justice centre also has spaces for people taking alternative approaches to the traditional courtroom trial process, with the three new suites for judicial dispute resolution services, a specific suite for other dispute resolution services, such as family mediation and civil mediation, and a new Indigenous courtroom with dedicated venting for smudging purposes.

“We are very excited about this new courthouse for central Alberta. Investing in the places where people seek justice shows respect for the rights of all Albertans. The Red Deer Justice Centre fills a significant infrastructure need for this rapidly growing part of the province. It is also an important symbol of the rule of law, meaning that none of us are above the law, and there is an independent judiciary to decide disputes. This is essential for a healthy functioning democracy.”

“Public safety and access to justice go hand in hand. With this investment in the new Red Deer Justice Centre, Alberta’s government is ensuring that communities are safer, legal matters are resolved more efficiently and all Albertans get the support they need.”

“This state-of-the-art facility will serve the people of Red Deer and surrounding communities for generations. Our team at Infrastructure is incredibly proud of the work done to plan, design and build this project. I want to thank everyone, at all levels, who helped make this project a reality.”

Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

Quick facts

• The new Red Deer Justice Centre is 312,000 sq ft (29,000 m2). (The old courthouse is 98,780 sq ft (9,177 m2)).
• The approved project funding for the Red Deer Justice Centre is about $191 million.