THUNDER BAY – A familiar face will be taking the reins when Ian MacRae retires as director of education with the Lakehead District School Board later this year.
The board announced Thursday it has hired Sherri-Lynne Pharand for the role.
The director of education with the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board since 2020, Pharand previously served as superintendent of education with the LDSB for 13 years.
“I am honoured to return to Lakehead District School Board and work to support the achievements of all students, and in particular work with the Indigenous community on First Nation, Metis, and Inuit Education to improve outcomes for Indigenous youth,” she said in a statement.
Pharand played a key role in advancing the board’s commitment to Indigenous cultural learning, international students, and curriculum development in her time there, according to the LDSB.
The hiring process was conducted by a third party over the past several months, and concluded with the board of trustees’ selection of Pharand last week, said board chair Ellen Chambers.
“I am pleased to welcome Sherri-Lynne Pharand back to the Board in a role that will further advance the goals of the new 2021-2024 strategic plan and Indigenous education framework,” she said. “I am enthusiastic to see the accomplishments and progress the board will make with Sherri-Lynne Pharand as its new leader.”
In a joint statement with LDSB, Keewatin-Patricia board chair Cecile Marcino wished Pharand well and said the board would begin recruiting for a replacement in the coming weeks.
Pharand’s first day on the job will be on Sept. 1.
MacRae, who held the position since 2014, announced his retirement in March.
