Former Superintendent Takes New Role in Alberta After Resignation

Former superintendent Rhonda Nixon has secured a new position with Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools in Alberta following her resignation from SD73 (School District No. 73) amid bullying allegations. The announcement was made during a special board meeting earlier this month, where Nixon was appointed as the superintendent of schools.

The board’s press release emphasized that Nixon’s selection came after a thorough national search by the Board of Trustees. Board chair Murray Hollman expressed confidence in Nixon’s capabilities, noting her strong recommendations and successful track record in both rural and urban school divisions.

Nixon brings with her a robust 25-year career in Catholic education across Alberta. The release highlighted her extensive experience as a kindergarten to post-secondary teacher, school principal, and division leader at Edmonton Catholic Schools and Greater St. Albert Catholic Schools. Acting superintendent Ryan Ledene praised Nixon’s dedication and leadership qualities, referencing her prior roles, including her tenure as a board member and president of the Catholic Council of School Superintendents of Alberta.

Nixon’s departure from SD73 in July was characterized as a decision to return to Alberta to support her family. However, a letter from CUPE 3500, the union representing workers at SD73, indicated that her resignation was also tied to a grievance filed against her. The union’s president, Dawn Armstrong, revealed that the findings of an investigation into workplace bullying and harassment were accepted by SD73, alleging that Nixon had violated the district’s administrative policies and the employee code of conduct.

In her new role, Nixon aims to prioritize building relationships with staff, parents, students, and community partners. “I look forward to working together to continue to bring the mission and vision alive in our division and to continue the trajectory of well-established success through the hard work of our staff,” Nixon stated.

Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools serves over 9,600 students across 21 schools located in Red Deer, Blackfalds, Sylvan Lake, Rocky Mountain House, Innisfail, and Olds. As Nixon steps into this new chapter, her experience and commitment to education will be closely observed by the communities she aims to serve.