SSDEC Announces New Superintendent of Education

The South Slave Divisional Education Council is pleased to announce that Dr. Renee Closs has been appointed as the next Superintendent of Education for SSDEC.

Dr. Renee Closs

Dr. Closs brings extensive Northern education leadership experience to the position. She currently serves as Vice President, Education and Training with Aurora College. Before joining Aurora College, she served as Superintendent of the Sahtu Divisional Education Council and held several education roles in the Sahtu region, including teacher, principal, regional inclusive schooling coordinator and assistant superintendent.

Dr. Closs has been recognized for her leadership in education at both the territorial and national levels, including through the NWT Superintendents’ Association Distinguished Service Award and the CASSA/Xerox EXL Award for school system leadership.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Closs to SSDEC,” said Pennie Pokiak, Chair of the South Slave Divisional Education Council. “Her Northern education experience and commitment to students, schools and communities will be valuable as SSDEC continues working with families, District Education Authorities and partners across the South Slave region.”

“I am honoured to begin my new role as Superintendent of Schools with SSDEC,” said Dr. Closs. “Having lived and worked in the North for many years, I deeply value the strength, resilience and unique perspectives of our northern communities. I look forward to working alongside staff, students and families to support student success and build on the great work already happening across our schools.”

SSDEC looks forward to formally welcoming Dr. Closs in August.