DURHAM CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Durham Catholic District School Board Announces the Resignation of Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education

At the Regular Board Meeting on May 27, 2024, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) announced the resignation of Daniel Stargratt, Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education, who has accepted a new position at Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board.

Assistant Superintendent Stargratt has over 28 years of experience in Catholic and First Nation schools, during which time he has served as a teacher, vice-principal, principal and system leader. Prior to becoming an Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education with DCDSB, he had a 20-year tenure as a school administrator, where he focused on creating an inclusive environment for all students, and worked in collaboration with local First Nation, Métis, and Inuit community partners. 

Mr. Stargratt has led the Indigenous Education department at DCDSB for the past two years. Highlights during his time with DCDSB include an increase in the number of students who have self-identified Indigenous ancestry, the expansion of the Indigenous Education team, a fish hatchery initiative, close collaboration with Indigenous community partners, and a new school-based Indigenous Framework document to guide professional development and student-community learning to be implemented in the fall.

A valued member of the DCDSB Senior Administrative team since August 2022, Assistant Superintendent of Education Stargratt has effectively led the Indigenous Education Department and related portfolios in Canada World Studies and Social Studies. He has also supported the West Family of Schools. 

"The Board has been well served by Assistant Superintendent Stargratt, whose leadership has provided opportunities for Indigenous students and strengthened Indigenous partnerships," said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board. "His experience and commitment to Catholic education are greatly appreciated. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we wish Mr. Stargratt all the best in his new endeavour." 

"On behalf of the DCDSB community, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Assistant Superintendent Stargratt for his dedication and efforts to support students, staff and families," said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. "His commitment to moving the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action forward within the DCDSB has been evident throughout his time in the Board. Although he will be missed, I know he will continue to impact the student experience in his new role."

"I have enjoyed every minute of my time with DCDSB and will always be grateful for the opportunity to work for the board and the relationships I have made over the past few years," said Daniel Stargratt, Assistant Superintendent of Indigenous Education. "I would like to acknowledge the great senior team and trustees I had the privilege of working with, my Indigenous team who continued to amaze me with their work, the staff and administrators of DCDSB, the students and families that we serve, and the Indigenous Education Circle and community partners for their guidance and friendship."

Mr. Stargratt will be joining the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board as Superintendent of Program Services effective August 19, 2024.