FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
James Holladay appointed Principal at Oilfields School

We are pleased to share that Mr. James Holladay has been appointed as Principal of Oilfields School effective August 23, 2024. 

With a deep-rooted commitment to the Diamond Valley community and an unwavering dedication to academic excellence and student well-being, Mr. Holladay brings a wealth of experience and passion to this role.  James' connection to Oilfields School and the surrounding community brings an understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of our students and families. His desire to give back and make a positive impact is recognized in this leadership appointment. 

A strength of Mr. Holladay lies in his vision for providing diverse curricular and extra-curricular opportunities for students. He firmly believes that a well-rounded education includes rich learning experiences and opportunities beyond the classroom, and he is committed to enriching the learning experience through a wide array of activities and programs. Whether it's through arts, athletics, or community service, James is dedicated to ensuring that every student at Oilfields High School achieves success.

Equally important is James' commitment to fostering a strong school culture where staff feel supported and empowered to focus on student success. He believes that a collaborative and inclusive approach is essential in creating a thriving educational community, and he is dedicated to providing the resources, mentorship, and professional development opportunities necessary for all staff to excel in their roles.

James holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Master of Education from Gonzaga University. James has served as Principal at both Turner Valley School and École Senator Riley Middle School. 

As he prepares to join the team at Oilfields School James shares "I am really excited for the opportunity to join the Oilfields community and connect/re-connect with students, parents, and staff I've known throughout my time in the High Country as a resident and as principal of Turner Valley School. I am eager to continue the great work occurring at Oilfields and to continue to move forward with fostering a nurturing environment where every student can flourish and thrive. 

On the flip side, I will greatly miss Senator Riley and the amazing things that we have created and established. The staff, students and parents have been outstanding, and it truly has a place in my heart after being there for 6 years as a teacher and now 5 years as the principal. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a wonderful community over the years, a place where I love to come to work each day because of the people I work with, I will miss Senator deeply."

Superintendent Chris Fuzessy shares, "We are happy to welcome Mr. James Holladay to the Oilfield School community as Principal. Mr. Holladay's focus on building a strong learning community with students, staff and parents will help advance the excellent work underway at Oilfields School. On behalf of the École Senator Riley Middle School community, thank you for your leadership over the last 5 years. And on behalf of the Oilfields School community, welcome to the OHS team. "

This appointment follows the announcement made by the current principal, Chet Musgrove, who intends to depart at the end of the school year to pursue other opportunities. We are grateful for Mr. Musgrove's leadership and wish him much success in the future.