By KEVIN BERGER, Local Journalism Initiative
A principal/teacher at a Hutterite colony school located roughly a half-hour drive west of Delisle is the only educator from Saskatchewan to receive a Certificate of Excellence as part of the annual Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence.
Natasha Cochran is one of only eight people across the country to be honoured this year with a Certificate of Excellence, which is considered to be one of Canada’s most prestigious honours for educators.
As noted in a press release from the Prairie Spirit School Division (PSSD), Natasha has been teaching at Willow Park Colony School since 2023, though she also serves as a principal.
In her Kindergarten to Grade 9 classroom, she navigates the complexities of teaching multiple grade levels while supporting students who are all learning English as an additional language.
A biography posted to the website for the Prime Minister’s Awards for Teaching Excellence states that, while she works in a uniquely complex learning environment, Natasha helps make school meaningful and deeply relevant by connecting learning to students’ daily lives.
“Natasha believes students learn best when they understand why learning matters. That’s why she designs lessons that are practical, meaningful and rooted in students’ everyday experiences. She plans integrated units that allow students of different ages to learn together,” the bio states.
“Younger students build literacy and language skills while older students take on research, problem-solving and leadership roles. Natasha also places a strong focus on creativity and digital literacy even when access to technology is limited.”
The bio further states that she was called upon by PSSD to improve student outcomes and was able to turn around below-grade-level results.
She has also guided students to success in division-wide and provincial competitions, including multiple art awards and Saskatchewan Hutterian Educators Association contests, and has supported students in publishing writing annually, including recognition in international competitions.
Prior to teaching at Willow Park, Natasha taught in the Sun West School Division for 15 years. She also teaches graduate and undergraduate courses at the University of Saskatchewan.
In the PSSD release, Natasha said she accepts this award with “deep gratitude for the people who have shaped me, the families who trust me and the opportunity to carry that influence forward.
“If I can help even a few students discover their abilities, develop a love of learning and believe in what they might become, then I will have honoured the remarkable teachers who helped me discover those things for myself,” she said.
“I want my students to know that their ideas matter, that their experiences and culture have a place in their education, and that learning can be challenging, meaningful and joyful.”
Tracey Young, director of education for PSSD, said they are incredibly proud of Natasha and thrilled to see her work recognized on a national stage.
“Natasha demonstrates what is possible when a teacher knows their students deeply, understands the curriculum, and draws on a wide range of instructional strategies to ensure every student is challenged and supported in their learning,” Young said.
“She creates a culture of academic rigour where students are encouraged to discover what they are capable of achieving. Her passion for her students, her community and the teaching profession is truly inspiring.”
The Prime Minster’s Awards have recognized outstanding educators since 1994. Nominations for the 2026 awards opened in October 2025 and closed in January 2026.
Award recipients receive a certificate from the Prime Minister and national recognition for their contribution to helping to prepare students for success.
The Prairie Spirit School Division submitted this head shot of Natasha Cochran along with a news release announcing her award.