After a late start in teaching, Shirley Dalrymple quickly became the kind of exemplary teacher so deserving of a Descartes Medal. Particularly telling is a comment from one of her colleagues who says that Shirley’s “love of mathematics, of learning, and of teaching are contagious” and an inspiration to the students and teachers who work with her.
Most recently, Shirley has been on leave from the York Region District School Board - working on curriculum development for the Ministry of Education. In fact, creating urriculum, courses and testing options, plus consulting on new textbooks have been an invaluable contribution by Shirley over the years. She has taken leadership roles in professional organizations, notably as president of the Ontario Association for Mathematics Education.
Shirley grew up in Penetanguishene, the second oldest of nine children. She and her husband Ian have two children and a beagle. Away from the world of education, she enjoys her Lake Nipissing cottage, gardening, sports and many crafts.