FOOTHILLS SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 38
Judy Leyden appointed Principal at Turner Valley School

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Judy Leyden as Principal at Turner Valley School for the 2024-2025 school year. With over a decade of dedicated service as Vice Principal across two diverse schools (Red Deer Lake & C. Ian McLaren) within the Foothills School Division, Judy brings a wealth of leadership experience to this opportunity.

A leader who believes in open doors and open hearts, Ms. Leyden has consistently demonstrated a commitment to being visible, approachable, and inclusive, ensuring that every voice is heard in the pursuit of enhancing learning for all. Judy embodies the principle that leadership is a community effort.

In her recent tenure at C. Ian McLaren School, Ms. Leyden prioritized fostering strong connections with staff, students, and parents. Judy's support for diverse and innovative learning and extra-curricular activities across the school shows their conviction in the strength of the community. She understands that when we build relationships, share expertise, and collaborate, our students benefit.

As she prepares to join the team at Turner Valley School Judy shares "I am thrilled and honoured to join the Turner Valley School Community and become a proud Tiger! As we move forward together, my commitment is to foster connections within the school community and beyond. Turner Valley School has a rich history, and I am eager to listen and learn so that I can lead and support Turner Valley School in its already thriving culture.  I extend my heartfelt thanks to CIM School and community, where I have thoroughly enjoyed being a Cougar for the past four years."

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chris Fuzessy shares, "On behalf of the FSD Team, congratulations to Ms. Judy Leyden on her appointment as Principal at Turner Valley School. Ms. Leyden's consistent leadership focus on listening, learning, and building strong professional relationships will undoubtedly continue to great work underway at Turner Valley School. On behalf of the C. Ian McLaren school community, thank you for your leadership. And on behalf of the Turner Valley School community, welcome to Turner Valley School."  

This appointment follows the announcement that the current principal, Debbie Payne, has accepted the role of principal at Meadow Ridge School for the 2024-2025 school year.