George O'Neill Public School Welcomes New Principal

 

MARATHON, Ontario –  Superior-Greenstone District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Aleysha Williams as the new Principal, of the George O'Neill Public School (GOPS), effective August 2024.  Aleysha joins us with over five years of dedicated leadership experience in education, complemented by a solid foundation as a classroom teacher, and a deep commitment to advancing student success and well-being.

 

Aleysha's appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process conducted to identify the best candidate to lead George O'Neill Public School into its next chapter.  Her background includes fostering positive school culture, nurturing community, and family partnerships, and promoting educational excellence.  Aleysha's leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of the school.

 

Born and raised in Nipigon, Aleysha developed a passion for learning, teaching, and leadership early on.  She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education from Lakehead University, with majors in sociology and minors in Native Language and Women's Studies.  Aleysha spent nearly a decade teaching at a First Nation elementary school, where she also served as Principal for the last three years.  Her tenure there deepened her dedication to land-based learning, a passion she has shared through presentations at various conferences and professional development session.

 

"We are thrilled to welcome Aleysha to George O'Neill Public School," remarked Eric Fredrickson, Superintendent of Superior-Greenstone District School Board. "Her wealth of experience, enthusiasm, and dedication to students' futures make her an excellent fit for our school community."

 

Aleysha will succeed Hillary Howe, who recently assumed a new role at a school in Thunder Bay. During the interim period, Erica Cotton has admirably served as the Acting Principal, ensuring continuity and leadership for the school.

 

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Erica for her interim leadership over the past two months," added Fredrickson. "Her contributions have been invaluable during this transitional period."

 

Upon her appointment, Aleysha expressed her excitement about returning to her hometown and collaborating with the exceptional students and staff at George O'Neill Public School. She looks forward to fostering a positive school culture where staff feel supported, students feel safe and engaged, and parents and community partners feel welcomed and involved. Aleysha's goal is to co-create a shared vision with the staff to ensure that students embark on a holistic learning journey in an environment where they can thrive and be themselves.

 

Aleysha Williams will officially assume her responsibilities as Principal of GOPS in August, with comprehensive support planned throughout the summer to facilitate her integration into the school and local community. 

 

Please join us in welcoming Aleysha Williams to George O'Neill Public School and the Superior-Greenstone District School Board family.  We eagerly anticipate the positive impact of her leadership and the exciting opportunities ahead for our students, staff, and families.

 

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