Director of Education Scott Johnson has announced the appointment of Michelle Sawa to the position of Superintendent of Education.
Ms. Sawa began her career as an educator with the Kenora Catholic District School Board in 1999. She comes to St. Clair Catholic from the Wellington Catholic District School Board, where, as a key member of Executive Council, she has provided leadership and direction under the Board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan, Board Improvement Plan and Student Achievement Plan. Her portfolio responsibilities also included supervision of Special Education, a family of elementary and secondary schools, and the board’s alternative education program. She is Chair of the Board’s Faith Formation Student Achievement Team and is responsible for leadership of system-wide professional development.
Ms. Sawa has extensive experience as a school administrator in both elementary and secondary schools and has served as a classroom teacher, special education resource teacher, literacy teacher and teacher-in-charge. As an educational leader with extensive experience in northwestern Ontario, she has an authentic and deep understanding and respect for Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives. Ms. Sawa is passionate about promoting culturally responsive and relevant pedagogies that positively impact students, families and educators.
Together with this experience, she has comprehensive system-level expertise in special education, which includes a thorough knowledge and ability to impact equity and inclusion, eliminate systemic barriers, promote inclusion and close gaps to ensure student opportunity for all pathways. She is committed to embracing the development of equity, diversity and inclusion so that all students and staff can reach their full potential.
“I know that the entire St. Clair Catholic family joins with me as we welcome Michelle to our senior team,” says Scott Johnson, Director of Education. “We wish her much continued success in her new role.”
Ms. Sawa’s first day at St. Clair Catholic will be November 13, 2023. She will take on the portfolio currently held by Laura Callaghan, who, announced her retirement on September 6, 2023.