The Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is pleased to announce the appointments of Shannon Bailey and Jane Lower as Superintendents of Education. Bailey and Lower will step into their new roles on July 1, 2020, and August 1, 2020, respectively.
Shannon Bailey - Background
Bailey, currently in an interim Superintendent of Education role with the KPDSB, has long been a leader in the organization. Since beginning her career with the KPDSB in 1998, she has worked as a teacher in both elementary and secondary schools, specializing in the areas of Special Education, literacy and staff development. Bailey has been a successful elementary school leader, becoming the Interim Superintendent of Education in September 2019, following seven years in administration at Valleyview Public School and Evergreen Public School in Kenora. She holds a BA/BEd/M Ed from Lakehead University.
As an educator, Bailey is guided by the mantra, "See a child differently, see a different child." Her portfolios have included leading project work for the Board under the guidance of Dr. Stuart Shanker and Susan Hopkins in the area of self-regulation, as well as leading the development of the KPDSB Leadership Framework and Leadership Portal. She is committed to supporting the TRCC Calls to Action and creating partnerships that help support student success.
Bailey stated, "I couldn't be prouder to be in the role of Superintendent of Education for the KPDSB. I am incredibly honored to work for an organization where every staff member understands what it means to collaborate and learn and puts the needs of our students above all else. I believe strongly in equity of access to education, non-academic supports and opportunities for all students to achieve great things."
Jane Lower - Background
Lower, currently the Student Success Lead with Lakehead District School Board, brings with her extensive experience as an educator. Since beginning her career in 1992 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, she has worked as a teacher in both elementary and secondary schools in the areas of physical education, cooperative education and student success. She also has experience as a guidance counsellor and in secondary school administration. In 2015, Lower accepted the position of Student Success Lead with Lakehead Public Schools following 14 years with the organization. She holds a Master of Education degree specializing in Educational Leadership from Charles Sturt University.
As an educator, Lower is a strong advocate for ensuring equity for all children. Her portfolios have included Indigenous Education, Four Directions approach, collaborative professionalism focused on assessment and evaluation, and data management. Lower is committed to ensuring all students have the skills, knowledge and confidence to pursue their goals in education, career and life. She has a strong sense of the learning needs of students and is committed to continually enhancing programs to ensure student success.
Lower stated, "I am honoured, privileged and excited to be the new Superintendent of Education for the KPDSB. It is clear to me that this board is committed to students, to equity and achievement for all. I believe that establishing and maintaining strong relationships is vital in education and KPDSB leads the way in ensuring collaboration and engagement with families, staff and community partners. I look forward to bringing my experiences to the board as well as learning from all of you."
Sherri-Lynne Pharand, Director of Education, added, "Shannon and Jane are experienced educators who bring significant strengths to our senior team. I look forward to continuing to work with Shannon and welcoming Jane to the team."
