Lethbridge School Division is pleased to announce the appointment of Katrina van der Meer as vice-principal at G.S. Lakie Middle School, commencing the 2025/2026 school year.
Placing relationships as foundational to her identity as an educator and leader, van der Meer values collaboration and trust among students, staff and parents. She is known for possessing an incredible work ethic and the attributes of a highly organized person.
A reflective practitioner, van der Meer is a very thoughtful and believes ongoing learning comes from the people around her. She places transparency and communication at the top of her priority list. The development of positive relationships in her current role has created a context for effective work with students and staff.
van der Meer is a listener, thinker, collaborator and educator who walks the talk with respect to commitment to student learning and well-being.
"I am eager to collaborate with the Lakie staff, connect with students and their families, and become part of the school community," she said. "I am also excited to explore the many opportunities Lakie offers in academics, athletics and fine arts."
van der Meer has been the vice-principal at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute since the 2019/2020 school year. Previously, she was the Learning Support Teacher at LCI and has also taught at Chinook High School and Victoria Park High School.
She has demonstrated success as a leader in a variety of roles, including chairing a Local 41 ATA committee, leading student international trips, managing an aquatic centre and leading teachers in processes associated with her role as Learning Support Teacher. She has also contributed to her school communities and the community of Lethbridge as a coach.
"I will truly miss the incredible community at LCI a collective dedicated to supporting students and their growth," said van der Meer. "The culture of teamwork and care among staff, students and families has left a lasting impact on me. I will always cherish the privilege of announcing each student's name at graduation. And, although I will no longer be a staff member at LCI, I look forward to attending future athletic and fine arts events."
van der Meer completed a Bachelor of Arts and Science majoring in Biology, Geography, Psychology and Neuroscience and minoring in French, as well as her B.Ed. majoring in Science at the University of Lethbridge. She attained her Master of Education focusing on Curriculum and Assessment with the University of Lethbridge.
