(RDPS)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Replacement Found

Board announces next superintendent for Red Deer Public Schools

Jan 13, 2020 | 10:39 AM

A search for the next superintendent of Red Deer Public Schools is over.

The Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Chad Erickson as superintendent of schools, effective August 5, 2020.

Erickson will take over from Stu Henry who is retiring after a 33-year career in education, and having served as the division’s superintendent for the last five years. Prior to that, Henry served Red Deer Public as deputy superintendent, and as principal at Eastview Middle School.

Currently associate superintendent – student services, Chad Erickson has been a teacher and administrator for 23 years.

Erickson joined Red Deer Public Schools in 2005 as vice principal at Oriole Park School, and then became principal of the Alternative School Centre in 2009 prior to joining the Division’s senior admin team five years ago.

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Erickson received his Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, as well as a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Portland.

“Mr. Erickson is an exceptional and respected leader who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role of superintendent,” says Board Chair Nicole Buchanan. “The board conducted an extensive search and considered options in selecting the next superintendent. The board felt that Mr. Erickson will provide strong, valued leadership to Red Deer Public Schools while bringing continuity and stability to the district.”

Buchanan says the board has confidence Erickson will build strong collaborative relationships and partnerships throughout the district, in the community, and with government.

It’s anticipated he will provide strong, trustworthy, and visionary leadership in potentially challenging years ahead, and ensure a continued focus on student and staff wellness/resilience, as well as equity and inclusion.

Finally, Erickson will ensure quality educational practice throughout the district to support its pillars of numeracy and literacy, equity, and student success and completion.

“It’s an honour to serve in this role and I appreciate the confidence the Board has demonstrated in me,” exclaims Erickson. “I welcome the opportunity to continue the great work our division has undertaken to best meet the needs of our students.

“Red Deer Public’s reputation to respond to the unique needs of students is outstanding. We have great opportunities to ensure students succeed and reach their full potential.”

Superintendent Henry also shared his thoughts on Erickson’s hire.

“Chad is an outstanding leader who is committed to meeting the needs of each student,” he says. “Erickson is a known champion for excellence in instruction, inclusion, as well as mental health and wellness that ensures student needs are met and they achieve their full potential.”

Buchanan also praised Henry for his work over the years.

“Stu Henry has provided incredible leadership to Red Deer Public Schools and is highly respected as superintendent across the district and beyond,” she concludes. “He has positioned the district well, as a strong and passionate champion for public education and our priorities on literacy and numeracy, equity, student success and completion.”

Henry and his wife Trudy, who recently retired as a principal in Chinook’s Edge School Division, plan to stay in Red Deer and be active in the community.