The St. Clair Catholic District School Board has a new homegrown leader at the helm.
Lisa Demers has been appointed as the new Director of Education, effective April 1, 2025.
Demers was a student at the Board and began her career as a teacher in 1993, then became a principal in 2015, and Superintendent of Education in 2017.
Board Chair John Van Heck noted Demers has worked to foster strong, faith-filled school communities where students are supported academically, socially, and spiritually.
“Lisa is a dedicated leader who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to student success and the values of Catholic education throughout her career,” said Van Heck. “Her leadership has had a profound impact across our board, and we are excited to see how she will continue to build on our momentum and further strengthen our schools and communities. We are confident that she will guide St. Clair Catholic with integrity, passion, and a focus on creating supportive environments where all students can thrive.”
Demers also led key portfolios, including Special Education, Mental Health and Well-being, Indigenous Education, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Safe Schools as a Superintendent and played a pivotal role in developing system-wide strategies such as the Board Action Plan for Indigenous Education, the Mental Health and Addictions Strategy, and the Student Achievement Plan, according to Van Heck.
"Her leadership has helped shape inclusive, supportive learning environments and drive initiatives that remove barriers for students," Van Heck added. "In addition to her work with St. Clair Catholic, Lisa has shared her expertise at the provincial level through committees such as the Ontario Special Needs Strategy Committee and the Regional Special Education and Curriculum Council."
Demers said she is committed to ensuring that all of her students have the opportunity to reach their full potential and is excited to lead St. Clair Catholic into this next chapter of growth and success.
"I am truly honoured to be entrusted with the role of Director of Education for St. Clair Catholic,” said Demers. “The work we’ve done to date has created a solid foundation, and I look forward to collaborating with our exceptional team to continue fostering an environment where every student is supported and celebrated."
Demers succeeds Scott Johnson, who announced his retirement in September 2024.
