FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
Assistant Superintendent of Employee Services for Foothills School Division Announces Intent to Retire

Join us in congratulating Mr. Allen Davidson, Assistant Superintendent of Employee Services for Foothills School Division, on his retirement effective August 30, 2026. Mr. Davidson has had a remarkable 26-year career with Foothills as a guest teacher, teacher, vice principal, principal, and as assistant superintendent in school division leadership. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Al for his incredible contributions to the engagement, support, and success of all learners over the years.

Prior to joining FSD in 1999, Mr. Davidson completed his education degree at the University of Victoria, then started his career in Peace River, Alberta in 1996. Following that, he and his wife, Jennifer, answered the call to Okotoks, believing it to be the ideal place in Alberta to call home and raise their family.

Mr. Davidson joined Red Deer Lake School in May of 1999 and taught junior high before taking on the Vice Principal role at the school in 2008. He later moved to Millarville School as the Vice Principal in January 2012 and became Principal later that year. His exceptional leadership qualities and attributes were quickly recognized, and Mr. Davidson was promoted to Assistant Superintendent, Employee Services in September 2013.

Known for his humility, kindness, and compassionate leadership, Al has dedicated much of his life to the important work of our school division. Supporting and mentoring employees at all stages of their career, through the highs and lows, he has made a meaningful and positive difference in the lives of many of our staff. Al has also provided exceptional stability through periods of significant change and major events including the High River flood and the COVID pandemic consistently assisting our Division with wisdom and thoughtful decision-making.

I am truly grateful to have played a small role in supporting student success and achievement over the past 30 years across two Alberta school authorities. This work has been deeply meaningful to me, and I consistently encourage young people to consider a career in education. 

Al is deeply respected and trusted, consistently demonstrating a commitment to going above and beyond in his service to the Division. He often drops into schools with a warm smile and genuine enthusiasm, taking the time to connect with staff and students alike. His presence brings encouragement, positivity, and a sense of support that lifts the spirits of everyone he meets. Al leaves a lasting example of what meaningful, servant centered leadership looks like in action.

Superintendent Chris Fuzessy offers this message, "Thank you, Al for your service to our Foothills community. Your integrity is second to none, and your support to all, including myself, has been invaluable over the years. I offer my sincere congratulations to you on your upcoming retirement, and on behalf of our FSD community, best wishes to you in your next steps and endeavors."

Looking back on his career and toward retirement Al shares this message,

I am truly grateful to have played a small role in supporting student success and achievement over the past 30 years across two Alberta school authorities. This work has been deeply meaningful to me, and I consistently encourage young people to consider a career in education. The opportunity to support students from all backgrounds as they grow, overcome challenges, and develop the strengths necessary to succeed in the world is, in my view, the most important and gratifying work anyone can do.

Of course, this work of learning is never an individual pursuit. At Foothills School Division, I have had the incredible privilege of working with exceptional individuals and dedicated teams at Red Deer Lake School, Millarville Community School, FSD Employee Services, and within our Executive Team. Any success I have experienced in my career is the result of the outstanding colleagues who supported me and worked alongside me as a teacher, school leader, and system leader. 

To all Foothills School Division employees, past and present, thank you for bringing your skills, expertise, and passion to the complex and diverse work required to create a system where all students can thrive. It has been a pleasure to work alongside all of you!

With much gratitude, we wish Al a wonderful and well-deserved retirement filled with joy, health and new adventures. We look forward to celebrating Mr. Davidson alongside our retirees at this year's Milestones event.