Spotlight Staff
Northland School Division No.61 (NSD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Gord Atkinson as Superintendent of Schools and Chief Executive Officer effective September 1, 2016.
Lois Byers, Official Trustee, says, “Mr. Atkinson was selected from a group of outstanding candidates following a Canada-wide search that resulted in many excellent applications from five provinces and one territory. Gord is an experienced educational leader who has a strong and demonstrated belief in the ability of every child to succeed. His understanding in the importance of Indigenous education, including languages and engaging Indigenous peoples in the education of their children; his belief in relationships and community engagement; his focus on student needs; his attention to staff development and wellness and his strong policy and planning orientation will propel NSD forward. I am confident in Gord’s ability to overcome challenges and bring exciting new directions for student success, while moving forward with existing priorities that are already making a difference — to lead Northland School Division to great heights.”
Mr. Atkinson began his education career in northern Alberta in 1990 as a teacher with East Smoky School Division. He successively held positions of Technology Coordinator, Director of Technology, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Director of Instructional Services, Assistant Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent with Northern Gateway Regional Division. Recently, Gord served as Associate Superintendent – Learning Services with Wild Rose School Division. His education career has been spent primarily working in small rural communities which included collaborative work with First Nation and Métis students, parents, and community members. Gord has also spent six years in the private sector as a National Manager of Safety Training. Mr. Atkinson has a strong practical background in educational leadership. He has a Bachelor of General Studies degree, a Bachelor of Education degree from Brandon University and a Master of Business Administration (Executive Management – Education Administration) degree from Royal Roads University. Gord is committed to a collaborative and transparent approach to decision making and is “student centered” in his approach to education. He says, “I have a deep, genuine interest and commitment to increasing student success and to strengthen involvement and partnerships with local communities. I am extremely honoured and I welcome the opportunity to work with and serve the students, staff and communities of NSD. I believe we can achieve many things together – why not Number 1!”