After 38 years serving students and families in our local public education system, Bluewater District School Board Director of Education Alana Murray is retiring. The announcement was made at the December 17, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Board after trustees accepted with regret Director Murray’s letter of resignation during the Committee of the Whole In-Camera meeting earlier in the evening. Director Murray’s last day with Bluewater District School Board will be August 31, 2020.
Since the start of her teaching career at Chesley District High School in 1982, Murray’s many roles in our local schools have included serving as a teacher, department head, vice-principal, and principal.
In 2002, she assumed the system level position of Superintendent of Education with responsibility for overseeing a group of elementary and secondary schools. Her main areas of focus and expertise spanned a diverse portfolio of secondary education, special education, safe schools, student mental health, and leadership development.
Murray was appointed as Director of Education in 2018 after occupying the role on an interim basis. In the senior leadership position, she was instrumental in facilitating a review of the board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan, expanding communications with parents/guardians through social media and mobile technology, and supporting efforts to promote staff recognition and well-being, among others.
“Alana has been such a fundamental part of Bluewater, it is hard to imagine the absence of her leadership and expertise. While we are saddened by her departure, we are also extremely grateful for the legacy she leaves through her years of selfless work to enrich the lives of many, both in and beyond the classroom. Her commitment to putting students first, mentorship, compassion, and amazing ability to build people up to be their best will be sorely missed. I speak for many in saying, ‘thank you, Alana.’ We wish her much success and happiness in her well-deserved retirement,” says Chair Jan Johnstone.
“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my retirement from Bluewater District School Board. As difficult as this decision has been, I leave with tremendous pride in what I firmly believe is an excellent public education system in Bruce Grey that will continue to grow and thrive. I humbly thank the many students, colleagues, trustees, families, and others with whom I have been so incredibly fortunate to learn from and work with over 38 rewarding and unforgettable years,” says Director of Education Alana Murray.
Information regarding a replacement for Director Murray will be provided when details become available.
source: media release, BWDSB
