The Grande Prairie Public School Division is pleased to appoint two new School Administrators for the 2021-2022 school year. Mrs. Cindy Clarkson has accepted the role of Principal at Crystal Park School; Mr. Josh Hartman has accepted the role of Principal of Hillside Community School.

Mrs. Cindy Clarkson

Mrs. Cindy ClarksonPhoto Courtesy: GPPSD

Cindy joined the Division in 2013 and has worked as a Vice Principal at the Grande Prairie Composite High School, as well as Crystal Park School. For the past four years, Cindy has served as Principal at Hillside Community School.  Cindy earned a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta, and a Masters in Education, with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction, from the University of Phoenix.

Cindy says, “I am passionate about fostering positive learning environments and supporting students and educators to be their absolute best. I know the Crystal Park community feels the same way, and I look forward to coming back to CPS to work with everyone to help all students succeed.”

Sandy McDonald, Superintendent of Schools, shared that “Mrs. Clarkson’s knowledge, skills and experiences have prepared her well to return to Crystal Park and support the school to continue to embrace diversity and provide excellence in teaching and learning.”

 

Mr. Josh Hartman

Mr. Josh HartmanPhoto Courtesy: GPPSD

 

Josh joined the Division in 2006 as a classroom teacher and currently serves as a Vice Principal at Riverstone Public School.  He had the opportunity to serve as a Vice Principal at Hillside Community School for four years from 2016 to 2020 and looks forward to returning to the Hillside community again.   

Josh earned a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta and a Masters in Education with a focus on Instructional Leadership, Indigenous Studies and Educational Research from the University of Calgary.

Josh’s educational leadership philosophy is: “It is imperative that a school environment fosters the needs of each individual student through the creation of a culture that is safe and inclusive to everyone.  Authentic, engaging learning experiences are necessary in order to mould the creativity and passionate drive we wish to see in our students.”

Sandy McDonald, Superintendent of Schools, shared the Division is excited for Josh’s return to Hillside in the new role.  “The Competitive interview process provided several excellent candidates the opportunity to share their vision for working with the Hillside staff to ensure student success.  Josh’s combination of experience, knowledge and skill and passion for the Hillside community have prepared him well to return as the principal of Hillside Community School.”

Information provided by Grande Prairie Public School Division