Media Releases

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Board announces departure of Superintendent

Effective today, Lyall Thomson, who has served as Superintendent of Schools since September 1, 2006, is no longer with the district.

"The Board extends its best wishes to Mr. Thomson in his future endeavors," said Board Chair Bev Esslinger.

The Board will seek a new Superintendent of Schools based on the candidate profile developed last year in consultation with parents and other stakeholder groups.

"We will be looking for an exceptional instructional leader who will demonstrate an unrelenting commitment to student achievement and to ensuring Edmonton Public Schools remains a leader and innovator in educational practice," said Esslinger.

In the interim, the Board has appointed Bob Holt as Acting Superintendent.

"We have complete confidence in Mr. Holt and are very grateful to him for agreeing to take on this important role," said Esslinger. "Mr. Holt, along with the district's exceptional staff, will keep the district and, more importantly, students moving forward."

Edmonton Public Schools is the second largest school district in Alberta and the fifth largest public school district in Canada with 199 schools, over 80,000 students and more than 7,000 employees.

Contact:
Lisa Austin
Director of Communications
(780) 429-8043
(780) 952-1770 (Cell)