The Board of Trustees joins me in sharing that Superintendent of Schools Brett Cooper has announced his intention to retire, effective August 31, 2026. While we look forward to celebrating his next chapter, his departure will mark the close of a notable 35-year career in public education, including 24 years of exceptional service to our division.
Brett's legacy within Pembina Hills is both deep and diverse. He began his journey here in school-based leadership, serving as Vice Principal at Fort Assiniboine School and later as Principal of R.F. Staples Secondary School for seven years. His leadership then extended to the Alberta Distance Learning Centre, where he served as Principal, Director, and Associate Superintendent. Before being appointed as our Superintendent in March 2024, he provided vital stability as the Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources for seven years.
Throughout his tenure, Brett has been a champion for steady, principled leadership. His work has consistently reflected a deep commitment to integrity, transparency, and a strong sense of responsibility to the students and communities we serve. Across his various roles, he prioritized the development of strong divisional relationships and approached periods of complexity with a commitment to fairness and open communication. While his career includes many significant accomplishments, he has often shared that the most meaningful aspect of his work has been the opportunity to support staff and form lasting connections with colleagues.
Reflecting on his career, Brett shared: "The role all of us in education play in a child's life cannot be taken for granted. This commitment can be demanding and draining, but the relationships you build with your students are memories they will never forget."
We owe a great deal of thanks to Brett for his years of leadership and his genuine care for our schools. On behalf of the Board, we wish him a fulfilling retirement, enjoying more time with his wife and family while pursuing his passion for the outdoors.
The Board will formally receive Brett's notice of retirement at an upcoming public meeting. Our priority moving forward is to ensure a transition that maintains continuity and stability for our students, staff, and families. We will share further details regarding the selection process for the next Superintendent of Schools as they become available.
