FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
Griffin Ellis appointed Principal at Cayley School and the Colony Schools

We are pleased to announce that Mr. Griffin Ellis has been appointed as the Principal of Cayley School and the three Hutterite Colony Schools, transitioning from his role as Acting Principal. 

As I step into the role of Principal, I am excited to continue fostering academic excellence as well as staff and student well-being. I look forward to helping our school and community grow, building on our strong foundation, and achieving great things together.

Mr. Ellis is deeply committed to fostering an environment where each student's academic success is supported within a caring and nurturing atmosphere. He is dedicated to recognizing and nurturing the unique strengths and abilities of every student, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally. Mr. Ellis is known for his empathy and genuine concern for others, consistently engaging members of the school community to build a shared understanding and collaborative spirit. His focus on literacy and numeracy has been instrumental in driving student achievement and growth.

Griffin commenced his tenure with FSD as Teacher at École Percy Pegler School and subsequently served as Learning Coach and Teacher at both Red Deer Lake School and École Joe Clark School. Mr. Ellis' moved into his first school leadership appointment as Vice Principal at École Senator Riley Middle School prior to becoming Acting Principal of Cayley School and Colony Schools in January of 2025.  Mr. Ellis has also worked as a key member of the Divisional Curriculum Design Team, supporting the implementation of new curriculum.

Mr. Ellis is closely connected to the Cayley School community as an alumnus. His strengths in leadership will support high-quality learning, excellent extra-curricular opportunities, and a commitment to rural education opportunities.

Mr. Ellis holds a Bachelor of Arts from St. Mary's University; a Bachelor of Education from St Mary's University; and a Master of Education, Educational Leadership, from the University of Calgary.

Mr. Ellis shares his reflections on his time as Acting Principal since joining the school communities in January, "Reflecting on my time as Acting Principal at Cayley School, I am proud of the progress we've made together. Working with our dedicated staff, supportive parents, and amazing students has been incredibly rewarding. It has been amazing coming back to my roots, and I appreciate the warm welcome I have received.

As I step into the role of Principal, I am excited to continue fostering academic excellence as well as staff and student well-being. I look forward to helping our school and community grow, building on our strong foundation, and achieving great things together."

Superintendent Fuzessy shares, "Congratulations to Mr. Ellis on his appointment as Principal at Cayley School and the Colony Schools. His leadership in the school and community is valued by students, staff, and parents alike; we are happy to see him advance his collaborative vision for success alongside the school community."