Leadership Updates at Comox Valley Schools

Comox Valley Schools is sharing several leadership updates that will take effect beginning January 1, 2027. These changes reflect the ongoing work to support student success, strengthen services across the district and ensure strong leadership in our schools and departments.
School-Based Leadership Changes
The following school leadership assignments will also take effect January 1, 2027:
  • Zale Darnel will become Principal of G.P. Vanier Secondary School
  • Jason Cobey will become Principal of Lake Trail Community School
  • Meghan McMillen will serve as Acting Principal of Aspen Elementary School
  • Jennifer Fritzsche will serve as Acting Principal of Queneesh Elementary School
  • Andrea Courage will serve as Acting Vice-Principal of Ecole Mark Isfeld
  • A Vice-Principal position at North Island Distance Education School (NIDES) will be posted shortly
Leadership Appointments and Transitions
As a result of the retirements of District Principal of Early Learning, Lisa Pederson and Associate Superintendent Vivian Collyer, the following changes will take place January 1, 2027:
  • Lelaina Jules will be Director of Indigenous Education
  • Tracy Pederson will be Director of Inclusive Education
  • Tara Ryan will be District Principal of Inclusive Education
  • District Vice-Principal(s) of Inclusive Education 0.5fte will be Nicole Leong & Laura Miller
  • Karma Taiji will move into the role of District Principal, Caring and Safe Schools
  • Kyle Timms will move into the role of District Principal, Elementary and Early Learning
  • Joe Heslip will move into the role of Deputy Superintendent
The creation of the District Principal Caring and Safe Schools, as well as changes to responsibilities as reflected in title changes are done without additional cost to the district as a result of restructuring with the retirement of Associate Superintendent Vivian Collyer.
We are grateful to all employees who continue to step into new opportunities and leadership roles in support of students, staff and families.
Please join us in congratulating our colleagues as they prepare for these new assignments.