Bluewater District School Board (BWDSB) has appointed an Owen Sound native with an extensive background in teaching and school administration as its new Superintendent of Education.
Kim Harbinson will begin her new role with the school board on September 1. She replaces Wendy Louwerse, who is set to retire.
“I am deeply committed to public education and passionate about fostering meaningful community partnerships that support student engagement and achievement. Empowering staff, inspiring innovation, and promoting a shared vision that places student success at the centre are areas to which I am extremely dedicated," Harbinson said in a statement about her new senior leadership role. "I look forward to working collaboratively with staff, students, families, and trustees to continue building a strong, inclusive, and forward-thinking learning environment across the district.”
Harbinson began her teaching career in 1990. She went on to serve as vice-principal at Saugeen District Secondary School and a principal at Bruce Peninsula District and John Diefenbaker Senior schools. In 2022, she took on the position of Pathways Administrator before moving into her current position of Learning Services Administrator – Student Success.
“I would like to congratulate and extend a warm welcome to Kim as she prepares to join the senior leadership team," said Director of Education Lori Wilder. "Her broad experience at the school and system levels, coupled with the expertise and passion she brings to her work in supporting students will serve our board well."
Wilder went on to praise the work of Louwerse, who she called an "invaluable" member of the board's senior leadership.
"We are appreciative of her many years of service to the students and families of Bluewater and wish her many rewarding and happy years of retirement," said Wilder.