Parkland School Division's (PSD) Superintendent of Schools, Mark Francis, is pleased to announce that Mr. Bryn Spence is the new Deputy Superintendent. Also, a new Associate Superintendent is joining PSD's Executive team as Mr. Travis McNaughton has been hired and will take over the portfolio for Instructional Supports and Services.
"Parkland School Division has always been a place where leadership and innovation thrive, and these appointments are a testament to the incredible talent within our organization." stated Superintendent Francis.
"Bryn Spence's dedication to equitable access and his collaborative, data-driven approach have already left a profound impact on our division, and I am thrilled to see him step into the role of Deputy Superintendent. Travis brings to the role a strong belief in building alignment, empowering others, and creating the conditions for both students and staff to thrive. Both of these leaders will position PSD's executive team to support meaningful learning, responsive programming, and ongoing improvement across Parkland School Division."
The official role changes will come into effect June 1, 2026.
Bryn Spence
Deputy Superintendent
Bryn Spence currently leads system-wide work in supporting the division instructional services and technology teams to create systems that support equitable access to high-quality education and professional staff growth. With over 18 years of administrative experience, Bryn has served as a special education coordinator, Assistant Principal, Principal, Division Principal and Program Facilitator across a range of school settings. His work focuses on strengthening teaching and learning through collaborative leadership, capacity building, and responsive programming. Bryn is dedicated to creating equitable and inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive. He works closely with school teams to design supports, structures, and strategies that make learning accessible and meaningful for diverse learners. Central to his approach is the use of data-driven decision-making, ensuring that system-wide growth is informed by clear evidence of student needs and outcomes. He is committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement that empowers staff efficacy, providing educators with the confidence and agency to develop authentic, impactful learning environments tailored to the unique needs of every student. Bryn believes that strong relationships, high expectations, and a clear focus on instructional excellence are essential to student success. Bryn holds a B.Ed. from the University of Alberta and an M.Ed. in Interdisciplinary Education and Leadership from the University of Calgary.
"Reflecting on my time with the Instructional Services team, I am deeply appreciative of the collaborative spirit and the tireless work done throughout Parkland School Division to put students first. The commitment to making learning both accessible and meaningful is what makes this division exceptional. I am honored to step into the role of Deputy Superintendent, where I look forward to further empowering our staff and leveraging data-driven insights to ensure our learning environments remain authentic, equitable, and inspiring for all."
Travis McNaughton
Associate Superintendent, Instructional Supports & Services
Travis McNaughton transitions into the role of Associate Superintendent after serving for the past year as Division Principal, Program Choice & Innovation. In his current role, he supports schools, leaders, and departments across the Division while helping advance strategic priorities connected to innovation, programming, and system improvement.
Since joining Parkland School Division in 2011, Travis has held several key leadership roles across the Division. Prior to his recent system-level work, he served as Principal of Connections for Learning, where he helped lead the integration of the Spruce Grove and Stony Plain campuses and the expansion of alternative programs and programs of choice such as the Parkland Student Athlete Academy, My Path, Building Futures, Virtual Learning, and the Learning Hub.
Travis holds undergraduate degrees in education and physical education from the University of Alberta, along with a Master of Education in Leading and Learning from the University of Calgary.
Known for his collaborative leadership, systems thinking, and commitment to public education, Travis brings to the role a strong belief in building alignment, empowering others, and creating the conditions for both students and staff to thrive. This fits closely with PSD's mission to assure supportive learning environments, meaningful experiences, and healthy relationships that create opportunities for enduring success.
"I am honoured to serve Parkland School Division in this role. I believe strong public education is built on relationships, trust, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement. I look forward to working alongside students, staff, leaders, families, and communities to support meaningful learning, strengthen our schools, and help ensure our Division remains responsive, innovative, and grounded in what matters most for learners."
