Heather has been an integral member of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ community for 20 years. She knows what makes our school special and has implemented, led, and participated in our differentiators throughout her years at Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Her commitment to our school's mission, vision and values is unwavering.
Heather was drawn to Â鶹ÊÓƵ because of its strength in Outdoor Education and its innovative, student-centred approach to teaching and learning. Her love of learning coupled with her passion for paddling, wilderness camping, SCUBA diving and sailing made Â鶹ÊÓƵ the perfect place to work 20 years ago, and it still is today.
Through various roles at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, from teacher to Subject Team Leader and Director to Vice-Principal, Student Learning and then Deputy Head of School, Heather has consistently championed personalized learning and embodied the very essence of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's values.
Heather holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Physics and Biology as well as a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. She holds a Master of Education and Principal’s Qualifications from the University of Toronto.
Heather's deep understanding of our community, care for our students, background in outdoor education and canoe tripping at Camp Wapomeo, passion for student-centred and character education, and her dedication to the growth and success of Â鶹ÊÓƵ have driven her to lead the school.
Under Heather's guidance, Â鶹ÊÓƵ will continue to thrive, innovate, and uphold the values that define us.
You are Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s fourth principal. Can you tell us four things that make Â鶹ÊÓƵ great?
Our approach to Personalized Learning. Our emphasis and dedication to Experiential Learning. The Adviser Program. And Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s wonderful community.
What are your priorities for Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s future?
Â鶹ÊÓƵ will continue to be at the forefront of education in Ontario, providing a rich, experiential academic program that engages students to develop future-ready skills. I will ensure Â鶹ÊÓƵ remains an environment in which students and staff feel challenged and supported, and are motivated to be creative, work and learn at a high capacity. We are developing a greenspace for the school that will foster community, physical activity, well-being and be readily available co-curricular experiential opportunities. And, of course, we will continue to strengthen our sense of community and inclusion while also remaining leaders in the smart use of technology.
What do you appreciate about Â鶹ÊÓƵ?
We have an incredible team of staff at Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Each person on the team contributes so much to Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s success. Their dedication to the school, the students, and their colleagues is second to none. When I am asked what I love most about Â鶹ÊÓƵ, I always say the people. The people make this place magical!
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I learn something new every day. Fostering a growth mindset and a love of learning is important to me and I try to model that for our community.
I feel lucky to have so many trusted colleagues and friends venturing into the next phase of Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s history along with me. I am thrilled to be on this journey with all of you!