Time for Change

Recently I announced that I would be leaving Cloverdale Catholic School to become the new Principal at Star of the Sea School.  The decision to finally leave CCS after 11 years was a very difficult one for me.  I have grown to know and love so much about our school community.  I have made close friends and lasting bonds that I hope and expect to last a lifetime. Many have asked, however, if I love it so much, why would I leave?

In the public school system, Principals move schools with regularity.  5 years is often considered enough time at one school.  In the Catholic School system, Principals will often stay in one school longer, sometimes 10 years or longer.  There are good reasons for this.  It takes a year to get to know everyone and begin to share and shape a vision for the school.  It also takes time to apply that vision to school programs and hire staff that fulfill that vision.  In only 5 years it is unlikely that a Principal can complete his or her work. 

Another reason to stay for a long time at one school is to build relationships with families.  I have become close with the staff and many families in our school.  In some ways, the school is like an extension of the family for us all.  Maintaining bonds by having stability in leadership can be a very good thing.

There comes a point, however, when the mission has been shaped and shared, the staff has been hired to accomplish the vision, and the school plateaus.  When I heard that Star of the Sea was looking for a new Principal, I began to reflect on my years at our school.  I am proud of the work that has been done here over the last 11 years.  Our school has a faith-filled and dynamic staff, an academic program that is the best in the area, and a robust extra-curricular program.  I feel like I have fulfilled what I came here to do (short of seeing a new school built) and the time was right for something new.

Another challenge for Catholic school Principals in just plain geography.  With 40 schools spread out from White Rock, to Powell River, to Chilliwack, it is very hard to find a school close to home.  Opportunities for movement within our geographical area are few and far between.  Star of the Sea School is close to home and teeming with opportunities for growth.  My personal and professional “stars aligned” to show me that this is indeed the time for a move.

When I first announced the news of my departure, I kept apologizing.  I truly did feel sorry for leaving.  In some ways, it feels like leaving family.  As time has passed, however, people have shown so much grace and encouragement regarding the decision.  I am at peace now and looking forward to the challenge of something new.  I will move on with a heart full of gratitude for my time at Cloverdale Catholic School.

As the Black Knight in Monty Python said, “I’m not dead yet!” Get ready for the best of me over the next 4 months.

Thanks for reading!