The Greater Essex County District School Board's new director of education has made history.
Vicki Houston, who in June was named to the position following the retirement of Erin Kelly, officially assumed her new duties on Friday.
Houston [pronounced How-ston], is the first female director of education in Ontario to come from a technical teaching background. She has been with the board for 26 years as a teacher, vice-principal, and principal. Most recently, Houston was the board's Human Resources Superintendent.
"I’ve had a variety of different opportunities in my career both outside of education and out in industry," said Houston. "I’ve had several opportunities to be in management roles, and I think pursuing the top level within an organization is important, and I have all the leadership skills to fulfill the role. Right now, we are definitely in need, in education, of some forward-thinking, some changes, and some new and exciting opportunities. I can’t wait to embark on all of those."
Board Chairperson Gale Simko-Hatfield is pleased that Houston has embraced the responsibility of the position.
"It’s a difficult job, but Vicki has a wide range of professional experience to rely on, and she has our trust, based on her devoted and long-term service to our board," said Simko-Hatfield. "She has many strong community relationships, which will also be a tremendous asset."
Houston assumes the job as a new Windsor school opens in Eastview Horizon Public. Two new schools, in Tecumseh and Kingsville, are under construction with projected opening dates of September 2024.
Fall classes in the GECDSB begin on Tuesday.