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Students at Nelson Rural School in Miramichi, N.B., have earned top honors in the fall anniversary edition of the 2025 CBC Music Class Challenge, powered by MusiCounts.

From hundreds of schools across Canada, Nelson Rural’s Grade 1-3 chorus placed third in the Elementary Performance, Vocal or Instrumental category, performing Paper Heart by Jeremy and Jazzy.

Their Grade 4-6 chorus achieved second place in the Junior Vocal category with a performance of I’m Like a Bird by Nelly Furtado.

Reflecting on the results, Mrs. O’Neill Delano said: “We were very fortunate to have our Grade 1-3 chorus place 3rd overall and our Grade 4-6 chorus placed 2nd overall from hundreds of schools across Canada. I am so proud of the effort each of our 3 groups gave in producing quality performances. I hope everyone relaxed and enjoyed a well-deserved break.”

Second- and third-place winners were awarded plaques recognizing their achievements.

These results highlight the dedication of Nelson Rural’s students and staff to music education and the school’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and performance skills.

Click here for the full list of winners.

The Inclusive Active Schools Leadership Award is presented annually to a physical education specialist, Educational Assistant, or student who has helped our Para NB – Sport & Recreation program grow within the school system or raised awareness of inclusive physical education during the fiscal year. The recipient of our 2024-2025 award is: Mae Cameron.

Mae serves as the Physical Education Lead for schools in Bathurst, Dalhousie, and Campbellton within Anglophone School District – North (ASD-N). As a longstanding partner of the Para NB Equipment Loan Service, she has played a vital role in promoting inclusive sport and recreation opportunities throughout northern New Brunswick.

Mae has organized and facilitated the use of adaptive equipment—including multisport wheelchairs, hockey sledges, and floor curling sets—to ensure that schools and youth with a physical disability throughout her district can equitably access the resources they need to be active. Through her leadership, students of all abilities are able to participate fully in physical education programs.

Her efforts have significantly expanded access to inclusive sport experiences in ASD-N schools, raised awareness of adaptive physical education practices, and strengthened collaboration between the Para NB program and the school system. Thanks to her work, the program continues to grow and reach more students each year.

Mae consistently goes above and beyond expectations, often personally assisting with the transportation of adaptive equipment between schools. This hands-on support is invaluable for Ability NB as a non-profit organization and it helps ensure schools receive the equipment they need in a timely and efficient way.

Mae exemplifies leadership in inclusive physical education. Her commitment, organization, and dedication have made a lasting impact on students, educators, and the broader school community. She has been instrumental in bringing Ability NB’s mission to life and continues to inspire through her work.