THUNDER BAY, ON – July 24, 2026- è��AV is pleased to welcome Maggie Fredrickson as Superintendent of Education.

“It is a privilege to take on the role of Superintendent with the è��AV.  I am committed to the success and well-being of every student and look forward to supporting learning environments where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential,” Fredrickson said.

An educator with the board for more than 25 years, Fredrickson has worked in a variety of roles supporting both elementary and secondary schools. She is currently the Principal of Special Education. Fredrickson is a graduate of Lakehead University’s Faculty of Education and has a Master’s Degree from the University of Toronto.

“Maggie is a welcome addition to our Senior Leadership team. Her years of dedication to the students and staff at Lakehead Public Schools shows her commitment to our organization and we look forward to forward to her continued success in her new role as Superintendent of Education,” said è��AV CEO Sherri-Lynne Pharand.

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We recognize that this may cause inconvenience for families, and we sincerely apologize. Thank you for your understanding and support as we prioritize the well-being of everyone in our school community.

All student items left at the schools will be available for pick up at the school today or tomorrow. Please connect with your child’s summer learning teacher on Seesaw to arrange a pick up time that works.

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The $181,745,016 capital and operating budget is a modest increase over 2025-26 and continues to put a strategic focus on student success, well-being and reconciliation. 

“This balanced budget shows our fiscal responsibility while reaffirming our commitment to meeting the increasingly diverse priorities of our school communities through strategic investments,” said è��AV of Trustees Chair Ron Oikonen.

“We would like to thank CEO Sherri-Lynne Pharand, Superintendent of Business Kirsti Alaksa and their staff for their leadership and dedication in delivering a budget that is committed to the success of every student.”

Guided by the three core principles of the Board’s 2025-2029 Multi-Year Strategic Plan of Belong, Succeed and Reconcile, key highlights of the 2026-2027 budget include:

Belong – Creating Inclusive, Safe, and Supportive Environments

• continued investment in mental health and well-being supports, including social workers, attendance   counsellors, and child and youth counsellors, ensuring responsive supports across the system;

• targeted supports for multilingual learners and Indigenous education, addressing systemic barriers and promoting equitable outcomes;

• sustained early years programming enhancements, including early childhood educator supports and transition-to-kindergarten resources, strengthening student readiness and belonging from the outset; and

• approximately $10.7 million in capital and IT investmentsto maintain safe, modern, and accessible learning environments.

Succeed – Promoting Excellence and Future-Ready Learning

• continued funding for math and literacy coaches and professional learning, strengthening instructional practice and improving student achievement;

• sustained support for diverse programming, including music, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, trades, and experiential learning, offering multiple pathways to success;

• ongoing investment in experiential and land-based learning, including the Kingfisher Outdoor Education Centre and dedicated experiential learning resources;

• expansion of Specialist High Skills Majors and signature programs including the Edge Hockey Academy, Superior Volleyball Academy, Hospitality, Information & Communication Technology, and Health & Wellness SHSM.

Reconcile – Advancing Indigenous Education and Partnerships

• continued investment in Indigenous language programming, graduation coaches, and student support workers, enhancing culturally responsive supports and improving outcomes for Indigenous students; and

• expanded access to land-based learning, cultural programming, and dedicated Indigenous education staff, fostering identity, engagement, and community connection.

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The Board of Trustees is responsible for student achievement and well-being with a key governance role and are:

• Members of a district school board who are locally-elected representatives of the public and responsible for complying with the Member’s Code of Conduct.
• Individuals who represent their communities and all groups within the community. Having diverse voices represented is important on our Board.
• Ensures the board remains focused on student achievement and well-being goals within the Strategic Plan while overseeing the budget.
• Responsible for supporting the Chief Executive Officer and their staff who handle the day-to-day operations of the board, while providing input on decisions that affect our public education system.
• Advocates for parents/guardians and caregivers.

Trustees provide governance, not management. They set direction through the multi-year strategic plan and governance policies.  They also provide oversight of the system’s performance, but they do not make operational decisions or determine curriculum.

What is the time commitment and remuneration?

• The term is four years (2026-2030).
• Up to bi-monthly evening board meetings as well as other committee meetings throughout the school year. Attendance at board meetings is mandatory.
• Time commitments will vary, but an average of 15 hours per week on activities associated with the role is common.
• Trustees are not employees of the school board and therefore do not receive a salary or benefits. They do however receive an honorarium based on the student population of the board.

How can I apply for this position?

Trustees are elected every four years at the municipal level (governed by the Education Act and the Municipal Elections Act, 1996). Submit nomination papers (from the Clerk of your local municipality or online at ) along with the refundable filing fee to the local office of the municipal clerk. Deadline is August 21, 2026.

Who can apply for this position?

• Anyone who meets the following criteria:
• A resident within the jurisdiction of the board
• A Canadian citizen
• At least 18 years old
• Not legally prohibited from voting
• Not disqualified by any legislation from holding school board office
• Vulnerable Sector Check

More information:

Board member code of conduct – www.lakeheadschools.ca/Board-Member-Code-of-Conduct-2025

2025-2029 Education Strategic Plan – www.lakeheadschools.ca/2025-29-Education-Strategic-Plan

Learn more about the role of Trustees and how to become elected at

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Join the �AV Mental Health Team for an empowering retreat designed to restore your energy, build confidence, and strengthen your wellbeing.

Move, breathe, and grow through:

• Daily Yoga to ground your body and mind
• Self-Care & Wellness Workshops to build lifelong resilience
• Mindfulness & Self-Compassion to reconnect with your inner calm
• Healthy Body Image & Social Media Reflection to support a balanced, confident sense of self
• Local fieldtrips to explore, connect & have fun
• Free wellness items to continue your journey long after the retreat

Date: July 7^th-July 9^th, 2026
Time: 10:00am-2:00pm
Location: Claude Garton Public School
*Transportation can be provided
*Lunch is provided

REGISTRATION CLOSED

Three-Day Kindergarten Camp: Exploring Feelings with A Little Spot of Emotion

Our engaging three-day camp is specially designed for kindergarten students and is inspired by the Little Spot Of Feelings program. This interactive camp introduces young learners to the important skills of recognizing, understanding, and managing their emotions in a fun and supportive environment.

Throughout the camp, children will explore a variety of feelings such as happiness, sadness, anger, and calmness. Using storytelling, guided discussions, and playful activities, campers will learn how to identify emotions in themselves and others while developing healthy ways to express and regulate their feelings.

Each day is filled with hands-on experiences, including:

• Creative Art Activities: Children will create colorful crafts and emotion-themed projects that help them visually express their feelings.
• Movement and Play: Games and interactive exercises will reinforce emotional concepts in a fun, active way.
• Mindfulness Moments: Gentle breathing and relaxation techniques will help children practice calming strategies.

This nurturing and playful environment ensures that every child feels safe, supported, and ready to grow!

Campers will also engage in specialized STEM programs run by Science North and Art Programs run by Canvas & Clay.

All snacks and lunch to be provided.  Transportation may be available upon request.

Location: Claude Garton Public School

REGISTRATION CLOSED

6-Day SEL Camp for Grades 2–4: Building Strong Minds, Friendships, and Confidence

This dynamic six-day camp is designed for students in Grades 2–4 and focuses on developing strong social-emotional skills in a fun, supportive, and engaging environment. Through interactive experiences, teamwork, and guided activities, students will strengthen their ability to connect with others, manage emotions, and build confidence—all while having fun.

Throughout the camp, students will be encouraged to recognize and use their individual strengths while learning the importance of collaboration and positive peer role modeling. Each day offers opportunities for meaningful connection, helping campers build positive relationships with both peers and facilitators.

Key features of the camp include:

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Group challenges and cooperative games that promote communication, problem-solving, and trust.
• Relationship Building: Activities designed to strengthen friendships and foster a sense of belonging within the group.
• Emotion Regulation & Distress Tolerance: Practical strategies to help students understand and manage strong emotions in healthy ways.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Hands-on tasks and scenarios that encourage critical thinking and creative solutions.
• Positive Peer Role Modeling: Opportunities for students to support one another and demonstrate leadership in a respectful, inclusive way.
• Self-Esteem Development: Encouragement and reflection activities that help students recognize their strengths and build confidence.

Campers will also engage in specialized STEM programs run by Science North and Art Programs run by Canvas & Clay.

Students will leave with stronger social connections, improved emotional skills, enhanced confidence, and a greater sense of belonging—all gained through a fun, encouraging, and empowering camp experience.

Date: July 21-23 and 28-30 
Location: Claude Garton Public School

All snacks and lunch to be provided. 
Transportation may be available upon request.

REGISTRATION CLOSED

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CHILDREN CAN ATTEND THE EVENT FOR FREE!

DAILY PASSES ARE FOR ADULTS.

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