Loretta Notten, Waterloo Catholic school board's director of education, to retire
Notten has been director of education for 7 years
Loretta Notten, the Waterloo Catholic District School Board's director of education, is set to retire after seven years with the board in Ontario.
"One of the things I will miss most is the opportunity to observe our schools and classrooms in action and the skill with which you navigate the demands of your service to others," said Notten in an email to board staff.
"I remain proud of what we have accomplished together and I hope that you share in that feeling."
In a statement, the school board of trustees commended Notten for her years of service and her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. As director, Notten oversaw two strategic plans and led the board as it grew by more than 5,000 students, the statement said.
"We have seen over the years that Loretta has played a key role in provincial and local advocacy for Catholic Education," the trustees said.
"Her impact on our system, on the region, and on Catholic Education cannot be understated"
Notten has also faced criticism this year over the board's handling of a situation where police were called to John Sweeney Catholic Elementary School to deal with the behaviour of a four-year-old student.
The incident prompted the Ontario Ministry of Education to order a review and parent advocacy groups Parents of Black Children and the Black Parent Council KW to call for Notten's removal from her position with the board.
Notten has expressed regret for the "hurt and distress" caused, and said the Catholic board is committed to doing better.
Her retirement is effective August 31, 2022.