FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
Foothills School Division Appoints Director of Staff and Wellness Learning

Throughout Chase's experience as a teacher, instructional coach, vice principal, and principal, he has demonstrated an exceptional capacity to support quality teaching through strong instructional design, innovative instructional practices, and a focus on the wellbeing of students and staff will ensure all FSD staff can flourish in their educational roles. He will collaborate closely with school leaders, teachers, and support staff to identify and address professional learning and wellness learning needs. He will also work collaboratively with external partners to leverage shared practices and resources that enhance the educational experience of our students.

Chase holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Lethbridge and a Master's Degree in Education Leadership from Gonzaga University (2015). He joined Foothills in August 2008 at C. Ian McLaren School in a Grade 5/6 assignment and K - 6 Physical Education teacher. In 2014 Mr. Ellis joined Turner Valley School as Vice Principal and in 2016 he was appointed Vice Principal at Spitzee School. Most recently Chase has been Principal at Blackie School (K-8) where his leadership supported the school community through a major modernization project that was centered around a strong vision for student success. Prior to accepting this system leadership opportunity, Mr. Ellis had been appointed Principal of Red Deer Lake School beginning in August 2023. The vacancy for the Director position opened recently, and while very excited to take on this system leadership role Mr. Ellis does so with mixed emotions as he had been very much looking forward to that opportunity to join the RDL community.

Chase shares the following as he steps into his role as Director of Staff and Wellness Learning, "Firstly, I want to address the RDL school community. To be sure, I was focused and excited about joining your learning community, and over the last number of months have been fully invested with both my head and my heart. However, opportunities such as this can be rare, and I felt deeply that I would regret not taking the chance that was before me. I look forward to supporting Red Deer Lake School and all FSD Schools in this role. I am both humbled and honoured to learn and work in this capacity. I look forward to connecting with all of our school communities soon as I seek to understand the nuances of teaching and learning in each of them."

Superintendent Chris Fuzessy adds, "We are very happy to welcome Mr. Chase Ellis into the role of Director of Staff and Wellness Learning. Chase's commitment to continuous improvement for all learners will bring great benefit to our students and staff team across FSD. He brings a collaborative and supportive approach to all of his work, and we look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly continue to have on the Division-wide team he will work alongside. Congratulations Mr. Ellis and welcome to the Learning Services team."