It’s a privilege to join the South Slave Divisional Education Council (SSDEC) as Superintendent of Education and to work alongside the students, staff, families and communities of the South Slave.

Having lived and worked in the North for many years, I know that our schools are much more than places of learning. They are an important part of the communities they serve, shaped by the people who contribute to them every day. One of my priorities in this role is to listen, learn and build strong relationships across the region.

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I’m fortunate to be joining SSDEC at a time when there’s already significant work underway. Our schools continue to focus on strengthening literacy and numeracy, supporting student well-being and social responsibility and creating learning environments where students feel connected and supported. Across SSDEC, we will continue looking closely at what is working, where our students need additional support and how we can strengthen learning.

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An important part of that work is ensuring that education reflects the communities and cultures of the South Slave. Indigenous languages, culture, relationships with Elders and land-based learning are essential parts of a meaningful Northern education. We will continue working alongside families, District Education Authorities (DEAs) and communities in ways that respect local knowledge, priorities and perspectives.

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This school year also brings change as the Northwest Territories continues its transition to the British Columbia curriculum. Our educators and school leaders are adapting their practice while keeping student learning at the centre of their work. Our role as a regional office is to make sure they have the tools, professional learning and guidance they need throughout that transition.

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Student success is about more than academics. Attendance, belonging, positive relationships and well-being all contribute to learning and require the involvement of educators, families, communities and students themselves.

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I’m looking forward to visiting our schools, spending time in each of our communities and connecting with students, staff, families and community members. There is a great deal of knowledge and experience across our region, and by working together, we can continue building on the strengths of our schools and communities.

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To our students, I hope this year brings opportunities to learn, grow, discover what you are capable of and feel proud of who you are and where you come from.

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I look forward to the year ahead and to working together to support strong schools and positive futures for students throughout the South Slave.​​