A new face will be seen around the schools next year.
The Vernon School District (SD22) has named its new superintendent, Karla Mitchell, effective Aug. 1.
The school district said she has an extensive career in education and will bring “a wealth of experience and knowledge to the district.”
Mitchell’s career started in Nova Scotia, where she was a teacher, vice principal and eventually principal at Springhill High School. She went on to fill senior leadership positions with the Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education (CCRCE), serving 65 schools and approximately 20,000 students. As the director of school administration at CCRE, Mitchell honed her skills in a role equivalent to an assistant superintendent in B.C., preparing her for her current role as superintendent of schools for School District 91 (Nechako Lakes) in Vanderhoof.
Mitchell obtained two Master of Education degrees, specializing in educational administration and curriculum studies with a focus on culturally relevant pedagogy. Her dedication to fostering inclusive and effective learning environments aligns with SD22’s vision for the future, the school district said.
“Karla Mitchell promises to be a leader whose passion for education and track record of transformative leadership will be invaluable to our district. We are confident that under her guidance, School District 22 will continue to thrive,” said board of education chair Mark Olsen.
Board vice chair Kelli Sullivan added, “I’m so thrilled! Karla is the leader we need to achieve our vision of a community where all are respected, and each person is encouraged to develop to their full potential.”
Retired superintendent and consultant Dr. Jordan Tinney assisted the district throughout the recruitment process with guidance and advise.
Mitchell is excited about her new role, saying she is “honored to join School District 22 and am eager to collaborate with the dedicated staff, students, and partners. Together, we will build on the district’s successes and work towards a bright and inclusive future for each and every learner.”
Mitchell succeeds Dr. Christine Perkins, who will retire as superintendent of schools/CEO at the end of July.
READ MORE: Vernon superintendent, a ‘visionary leader,’ announces retirement