NEWS RELEASE
AVON MAITLAND DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
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The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce Graham Shantz as their next Director of Education. Shantz took on this role after 26 years with the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB). His most recent position with WRDSB was as the Associate Director. In that role he was responsible for leading the human resources and equity, information technology, finance, planning, and facilities functions. Prior to becoming the associate director, Shantz first joined WRDSB as a teacher in 1997 and served in a variety of positions including principal, Executive Officer, Superintendent of Student Achievement and Well-Being and Coordinating Superintendent.
During his tenure, he supported student achievement, the migration of the IT network to cloud services, recovery from a cyber incident, changes in hiring practices which now reward lived experiences, transformation to more accessible school buildings and new facilities that incorporate nature in architectural and landscape design. He has worked closely with librarians, trades, educators and non-education staff to create innovative solutions that centre students.
Graham was born and raised in the district and is a former Avon Maitland District School Board student. Shantz has studied at the University of Western Ontario where he earned his Masters and has a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern Queensland, Australia.
“I am very excited to be returning to Avon Maitland as the Director of Education. I have the most wonderful memories from my time as a student. It will be an honour to work for the system where I started my education journey. Avon Maitland ensured that I was prepared for life’s challenges and opportunities, the same goal we have for all of our students.” said Shantz.
Board Chair Robert Hunking said: “AMDSB is delighted to welcome Graham Shantz as our new Director of Education. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position and we look forward to his leadership in working together with our students and staff."
Chair Hunking also thanked Lisa Walsh by stating: "We want to express our appreciation to Lisa Walsh for her excellent leadership and vision over the past 7 years as Director. Lisa’s focus on teamwork, service and leadership has resulted in the significant progress of AMDSB. Her 35 year career in education has been exemplary and inspiring, and we wish her years of health and happiness in this next adventure of retirement."
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