Longtime educator, trustee honoured by provincial public schools

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on June 12, 2025.

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A Medicine Hat Public School Division board trustee was recently recognized by the Public School Boards’ Association of Alberta for his commitment to public education in the Hat.

Rick Massini received the annual Dick Baker Legacy Award on Monday, which recognizes a school board trustee member who encompasses the values of integrity, compassion, respect, mentoring and leadership, as well as models engagement of the well-being of students, according to the PSBAA that recognizes its members with special recognition awards during its annual general assembly each spring.

Massini has a long career as a local educator, beginning his role teaching at Medicine Hat High School in 1980, as well as working as principal of Ross Glen School in 1998 and within the division’s head office.

“For me, education was much more than a career, it was my life,” said Massini. “So, upon retirement, I could not simply walk away.”

In addition to his teaching duties, Massini served as the ATA local 76 president for several years and is a long sitting trustee board member.

“I’m forever thankful for the opportunities being a trustee and a member of PSBAA has brought in continuing the work of advocating for children and for public education. Thank you to my board and to PSBAA for bestowing this honour upon me.”

In 2006 Massini was appointed to the district office as the director of programs and instruction, where he remained until his retirement.

“His commitment to children does not only include significant contributions locally, but throughout Alberta,” said Cathrine Wilson, board chair, who was also honoured for her 12 years of service. “His involvement and passion for PSBAA is unwavering. He’s a true advocate for public education, for children and for providing the best educational opportunities for all students.”

Wilson said she views Massini as a mentor who helped her, and the board, excel in their current positions and adapt to the changing needs of the school division.

“Massini started to adapt to a more current practice and changed the approach we had at the table to a more collaborative, transparent and openness for robust conversation,” explains Wilson. “His leadership has been instrumental on our board and for our school division.”

Massini has also served as the chair for the Medicine Hat Police Commission, as well as president of the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede.

The annual award evening was held during the Spring General Assembly in Calgary on June 4. Five awards in total were presented.