Lasalle Secondary’s Jeff McKibbon among Canada’s Outstanding Principals

Jeff McKibbon of Lasalle Secondary School has received national recognition for his exceptional leadership. He is among Canada’s Outstanding Principals for 2014. 

Each year, The Learning Partnership recognizes 40 of the most remarkable Principals, representing all school boards from every province and territory across Canada. The selection is based on a range of criteria from student achievement, to instructional leadership, to professional learning teams, to partnerships with families and communities, to personal growth initiatives.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to congratulate Jeff McKibbon on his outstanding achievement,” said Rainbow District School Board Chair Doreen Dewar. “As a Principal, Jeff McKibbon has consistently led by example. He nurtures student success, inspires staff, engages parents and builds partnerships with positive results. We are so proud to have one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals in Rainbow Schools.”

“Principal McKibbon’s focus is clearly aimed at making every student feel valued and successful. His vision and work ethic demonstrate a desire to enable each student to achieve his or her potential,” said Director of Education Norm Blaseg. “Principal McKibbon’s commitment to success for every student is reflected in his school’s gains in student achievement over the past five years.” He added: “He is a person of integrity who models the character traits that we instill in students as we prepare them for learning and life.”

Jeff McKibbon joined Rainbow District School Board as a secondary school teacher in 1991. He was appointed Vice-Principal of Lasalle Secondary School in 1999 and, a year later, assumed the role of Principal of Levack District High School. He has been Principal of Confederation Secondary School, Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School and, most recently, Lasalle Secondary School where he has served since 2008. 

Jeff McKibbon is President of the Rainbow District School Board Principals’ Council and is the Board’s representative on the Ontario Principals’ Council (OPC). He has been a provincial counselor on the OPC for six years. He has a Bachelor of Arts from Laurentian University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of British Columbia and a Masters of Education from Nipissing University.

As an exceptional Principal, Jeff McKibbon establishes a vision for improved student achievement and maintains high standards; is knowledgeable about curriculum and instructional practices; is knowledgeable about assessment and evaluation practices; uses data to assess results and refine goals; and obtains feedback to improve teaching and learning.

Principal McKibbon fosters strong interpersonal relationships; empowers others to develop and use their leadership skills; personally role models leadership skills; involves staff in key instructional decisions; and provides professional learning.

He demonstrates effective communications skills; reaches out to ensure parental and community support; involves local businesses and social agencies as school partners; and provides a secure, safe and welcoming environment. He also demonstrates knowledge of current research and best practices; presents at conferences and workshops; and acts as an agent of change.

Principal McKibbon will receive his award at the annual Canada’s Outstanding Principals Gala on February 25, 2014 in Toronto.