I am pleased to take this opportunity to express how joyful I am to be your new Principal! Being raised on a third generation family farm, I learned the value of hard work and the benefits of experiential learning in nature. I came to teaching later in life after working in business and the not-for-profit sector. I have been an administrator at several OCDSB schools and in the Arctic. I think of myself as being responsive and available, if you would like to come see me, my door is always open.
W.O. Mitchell has over 500 students in Kindergarten to grade 8 in both English and French programs. We strive to create a positive and respectful learning environment within the school by being responsive to the social-emotional development of the whole child alongside their academic learning journey. We pride ourselves on having a learning environment that respects diversity and is inclusive.
I believe that student well-being and academic achievement are mutually supportive. A good learning experience is built on a cooperative effort between parent, child and the educators. Parental involvement at home and volunteering within the school help to make the learning experience richer, while adding to the fabric of what makes W.O. Mitchell such a vibrant school. I would encourage families to read class newsletters, discuss the learning with your children, stay in contact with the whole education team, and embrace opportunities to be involved.
As a learning leader at W.O. Mitchell, my expectations for conduct and standards for academic growth are high.
We are thankful that we are a part of your children’s important learning journey.
Sarah Pope