Principals confident in Carr

By RAMON GONZALEZ
WCR Staff Writer
Edmonton

Principals in Edmonton Catholic schools say their new superintendent is a team player who has a clear vision for Catholic education.

Joan Carr is a team player who models collaboration and faith, said Kim Brophy, principal of Archbishop Joseph MacNeil School.

"She has really earned the respect of the administrators and we support her and we believe in her leadership," Brophy said. "Her vision aspires to greater heights yet remains realistic."

After 32 years serving in Catholic education, Carr recently became superintendent of the Edmonton Catholic School District. At an Aug. 24 district leadership day, the WCR spoke to a few principals about their new chief.

Margo McGee, principal at St. Mary/St. Monica School, described Carr as a visionary and an inspired educator who believes in the power to be a great Catholic district.

"She will bring, I think, an energy, an enthusiasm and a sense of community service," McGee said.

"I think she is very welcoming; she honours the rich heritage of our Catholic education and brings a new vision that's exciting and energizing. I think she will positively impact and strengthen Catholic education across the district and beyond. She believes in Catholic education."

As far as principal Dan Friedt of St. Anne Elementary is concerned, Carr offers a clear vision and direction for the coming school year.

"I appreciate her energy, her clearness of vision and the compassion that she has," Friedt said. "She is very passionate about the kind of Catholic education that we should be offering.

"She walks the talk. We can say wonderful things but she actually does what she says she does. And when I see that kind of strong leadership, it makes leaders like myself want to do exactly the same thing."

Copyright © 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 -- Western Catholic Reporter