Dear students, families and members of the UGDSB community,

I am honoured to officially begin my new role as Chief Executive Officer of the Upper Grand District School Board on October 1.

While this role is new for me, the UGDSB has been an important part of my life for more than 30 years. I began my career here as a teacher and have since had the privilege of serving students and families in many different roles, including as a Vice-Principal, Principal, Superintendent of Education, Executive Superintendent and Associate Director.

Throughout those years, one thing has remained constant: our students are at the heart of the work we do.

As CEO, I am excited to continue working alongside our students, staff, families and community partners to build schools where students feel they belong, where they are supported to learn and grow, and where they have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.

I also know that we cannot do this work alone. Families and caregivers are essential partners in public education, and I look forward to continuing to listen, learn and work together as we support our students.

This is an exciting time for the UGDSB. As we continue the work of our Multi-Year Plan, we have an opportunity to build on our strengths, respond to the changing needs of our students and communities, and continue creating engaging and inclusive learning experiences for all students.

I want to sincerely thank the students, staff, families and members of our community who have shared their congratulations and well-wishes with me. I am also grateful to the Board of Trustees for placing their confidence in my leadership.

After more than 30 years with the UGDSB, it is a tremendous privilege to take on this role and continue serving a community that means so much to me.

I look forward to what we will accomplish together and wish all students, staff and families an excellent school year.

Brent McDonald
Chief Executive Officer
Upper Grand District School Board