School District 57 has a new superintendent.
Anita Richardson has been hired by the board of education and will start her new job January 1, 2020. The appointment is a homecoming for Anita after a few years in Alberta most recently with Horizon School Division as the Associate Superintendent. Anita knows the district well as she spent time as a teacher and principal in Mackenzie and was born in Prince George and raised in the Robson Valley.
“Leaving in 2012 was a difficult family decision that led to a wonderful opportunity to grow and learn in a two new environments,” she said. “I recognize that as I embark on this new yet familiar path that, as the English author Terry Pratchett said, ‘Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.’ I have the luxury of a fresh perspective while recognizing the importance of the journey so far. As I return, I bring a strong moral grounding, a desire to inspire learning, a commitment to our communities, and a willingness to engage others in meaningful conversation.”
Board chair Tim Bennett said there were many good applicants for the job.
“It was important the successful candidate demonstrated leadership and results working with community through authentic relationships, supporting improved outcomes for students and vision for the district,” said Bennett. “Anita’s passion, background and experiences will complement the strong leadership team we have in the district and help continue to move the district forward into 2020 and beyond.”
She is a skilled educator who brings with her a passion for Indigenous education and relationship building with community.
“I am looking forward to getting reacquainted with the communities and people that make up School District 57,” Richardson said. “I know that by developing strong relationships with the dedicated Board of Education, our amazing staff, members of Lheidli T’enneh and McLeod Lake Indian Band, our committed educational stakeholders, together we will grow School District 57 into a learning community that truly prepares our students to seize life’s opportunities. It is only together, supporting one another, working toward our common goal that we will see School District 57 reach its true potential.”
Rod Allen, who was brought in as interim superintendent when Marilyn Marquis-Forster resigned, will continue on until Richardson arrives in January.