Division News

Division News

Northland School Division's Superintendent/CEO receives Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Award

Posted on February 27

The Superintendent and CEO of Northland School Division has been recognized with a prestigious award. Dr. Nancy Spencer-Poitras has been awarded Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for her exceptional qualities and outstanding service in the form of selfless giving and volunteering! This medal is awarded to 7000 Alberta residents who have made a significant contribution to Canada, Alberta, their communities, or fellow citizens.

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I congratulate Dr. Nancy Spencer-Poitras on earning such a prestigious award,” said Cathy Wanyandie, Board Chair. “We are fortunate to have a Superintendent and CEO who goes above and beyond to ensure Northland students are successful. Throughout her time as Superintendent and CEO, Nancy has demonstrated the ability to implement strategies and develop meaningful relationships that benefit the learning experience for Northland students.”

“It is an absolute honour to receive this prestigious award,” said Dr. Nancy Spencer-Poitras. “Working in the field of education is such a rewarding experience. As an educator, you have an opportunity to have a profound impact on a child’s learning journey; something I take very seriously. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work with so many talented educators and interact with a number of parents/guardians and stakeholders invested in the education of children. From my perspective, I share this award with so many individuals who have helped students achieve success in life.”

Dr. Nancy Spencer-Poitras, who has been the Superintendent/CEO of Northland School Division since February 1, 2020, has maintained an exceptional record of school and division leadership over an extensive career as an educator in Alberta. She has worked as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal with Edmonton Public Schools, as an Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent/CEO in Alberta, as well as having worked with both the College of Alberta School Superintendents (CASS) and Alberta Education. Her education career has spanned over 40 years 

Throughout her career, Nancy has been passionate about improving educational outcomes for all students. For those efforts, she has been awarded the Provincial Distinguished Leadership Award in 2006 and the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1997. 

A special ceremony is being planned to honour Dr. Spencer-Poitras with Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.