Bluewater District School Board appoints interim education director

The Bluewater District School Board has appointed Alana Murray (above) to the position of interim education director, following the resignation of Steve Blake who has taken a position as education director with the Simcoe County District School Board.

“We are very excited to welcome Alana (Murray) as our new director of education," said board chairman Ron Motz. "The board of trustees looks forward to working with her as we continue our important work to enhance the educational experience for all of our students.”

Murray began her teaching career in 1982 at Chesley District High School where she also served as a department head. She was a vice-principal in Walkerton, and a principal in Lion’s Head and Owen Sound. In 2002, she assumed the role of superintendent of education where she has had responsibility for a variety of portfolios, including secondary education, special education, safe schools, student mental health, and leadership development, as well as an area of elementary and secondary schools.

“Alana (Murray) has an excellent track record through her many years of supporting student success and well-being in Bluewater," said Motz. "Her extensive knowledge in public education, combined with her varied leadership experience, will be extremely beneficial in her new role."

“I am privileged to assume the role of director with the Bluewater District School Board and continue to serve the students, parents, and communities in Bruce and Grey counties,” said Murray. “Working in this new capacity, with such a capable staff and dedicated board of trustees who care deeply about the academic and well-being needs of our students, is a tremendous opportunity which I am excited to undertake.”

Murray holds an Honours Bachelor of Applied Arts degree from Ryerson Polytechnic University, a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Toronto, and a Masters of Education degree, specializing in curriculum and assessment, from the University of Toronto. She lives in Bruce County with her family, and enjoys the many attributes of the area. She will officially begin her duties as education director March 20.