(Red Deer Public School Division/ supplied)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Future division leaders

Red Deer Public School Division staff attend Aspiring Leaders Symposium

Jun 16, 2025 | 3:11 PM

Staff from the Red Deer Public School Division attended the Aspiring Leaders Symposium last month which wrapped up the sessions for the 2024-25 school year.

On May 29, they attended the final installment of the 2025 Aspiring Leaders sessions, which are meant to inspire the next generation of division leaders.

While there, attendees were pushed to think about their values and identity. They were also to learn from an interactive presentation from keynote speaker and educational consultant Ray Hoppins, who shared lessons he has learned about leadership.

After that, staff chose between two break out sessions including a presentation by Amanda Kiat, principal at Normandeau School regarding values-based leadership, and the second from Sheila Sillery, vice principal at G.W. Smith Elementary on the importance of leading with why.

“The Aspiring Leaders Symposium is about recognizing the leadership that already exists within our schools and helping people grow that potential,” said Corrine Thorsteinson, Associate Superintendent of People Services for Red Deer Public Schools. “No matter where participants are in their leadership journey, this symposium gave them the tools to take the next step.”

testing being done

Boil water advisory issued for south Penhold

6h ago

Final approval in April

Town of Sylvan Lake approves interim operating budget

12h ago

opposed

Blackfalds opposed to proposed provincial electoral boundary changes

16h ago

The Aspiring Leaders Symposium is in its third year but this time around offered both inspiration and practical insights.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by Red Deer Public Schools to ensure schools have strong and thoughtful leaders to lead the way for students and staff.

“Great schools need great leaders, and that starts by supporting our staff who already make a difference every day,” Thorsteinson said. “We want our staff to feel empowered, supported and inspired to lead.”