FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
Allison Stewart to lead C. Ian McLaren School as Principal, Fall 2026

Foothills School Division is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Allison Stewart as Principal at C. Ian McLaren School, effective August 21, 2026.
 
Ms. Stewart is an experienced school leader who brings a strong record of instructional leadership, effective school management and operational oversight, and dedication to supporting all students for success. Since joining Foothills School Division in 2008, she has served the division in a variety of roles, including most recently as Vice Principal at Meadow Ridge School, and previously as Vice Principal at Turner Valley School and Acting Vice Principal at École Percy Pegler School. These diverse leadership experiences have strengthened her understanding of effective school operations, community culture, and programming across elementary school contexts.

I am incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to join the C. Ian McLaren School community as the next Principal. I look forward to listening, learning, and continuing the important work that Ms. Swanson and the school community have built over her years of service at CIM.

Throughout her administrative career, Allison has demonstrated a deep commitment to the Leadership Quality Standard, supporting safe and caring learning environments, strong instructional practice, and collaborative school cultures. As service oriented leader, she is known for her ability to work alongside staff to align school goals with divisional priorities, foster professional growth, and support student learning through thoughtful supervision, shared leadership, and strong relational practice.

Allison brings extensive experience supporting teaching and learning across grades, including classroom instruction and extracurricular programming, as well as leadership in literacy, numeracy, professional development, and school-wide planning. Her work reflects a strong understanding of organizational systems and a commitment to continuous improvement grounded in evidence-informed decision-making.

A dedicated lifelong learner, Allison holds a Master of Education in School Administration from Gonzaga University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Winnipeg. She completed her Leadership Quality Standard (LQS) certification in 2022 and continues to engage in ongoing professional learning to strengthen her leadership practice.

As she prepares to lead the C. Ian McLaren School Community Allison offers this reflection, "I am incredibly grateful and excited for the opportunity to join the C. Ian McLaren School community as the next Principal. I look forward to listening, learning, and continuing the important work that Ms. Swanson and the school community have built over her years of service at CIM.

I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the staff members who have supported my growth as a leader across the schools I have served over the past four years. I truly value the lessons you have shared and will carry forward the many ideas and experiences gained within each school community."

Christopher Fuzessy, Superintendent of Schools lends his support for Ms. Stewart's appointment, "We are fortunate to have skilled school administrators in Foothills School Division, and Ms. Stewart is a prime example of a compassionate and forward-thinking teacher and leader. Congratulations, Allison, on this next step in your career as Principal at CIM!"