York Region District School Board (YRDSB) board of trustees has appointed a new interim director of education, while the board continues the process of recruiting a permanent person to fill the position.
Scott Yake will began his term as interim director on Nov. 1, in the wake of current director of education Louise Sirisko finishing her five-year term Oct. 31.
“We would like to thank Louise Sirisko for her previous five years and welcome Scott Yake as interim director of education,” said board chair Allan Tam.
Yake has 30 years of experience with YRDSB as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, superintendent, coordinating superintendent, and associate director of education. In 2018, he began working with the Ontario Ministry of Education as a special advisor in education labour relations and operations. Mostly recently has has worked as leadership development strategist for the Salvation Army.
Yake said he is looking forward to returning to YRDSB and working with staff, students and the community.
“My priority will be to continue building strong relationships with all stakeholders and strengthening YRDSB’s legacy as a welcoming and inclusive organization focused on the achievement and well-being of students through caring, skilled and dedicated staff members," he said. "As I begin this term, I will be reaching out to community partners, staff and meeting students and families in schools. I appreciate my goal will be to ensure the continued success of the organization and assist with transition for the permanent Director.”
"The board is fortunate to benefit from Scott Yake’s expertise during this time of transition, especially given his long and varied history with YRDSB combined with his work provincially," Tam said. "We are confident that our students, their families, and staff will continue to experience success in safe, healthy and inclusive learning and working environments throughout the board, and we remain committed to serving the diverse communities throughout York Region with ethical leadership while building collaborative relationships with all stakeholders."
The board of trustees is continuing the search for a permanent director of education. More information about the process, including public consultation will be revealed in the near future. This process will completed by the newly sworn in board of trustees, following the recent municipal elections.
Yake will remain in the role until the new director begins.
