YRDSB appoints principal to oversee anti-Black racism strategy

I am excited to take on this role and for the opportunity to champion equity and inclusivity across York Region District School Board,' says Darcie Sutherland

Newmarkettoday.ca
June 17, 2021

York Region District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Darcie Sutherland to the role of Principal of Inclusive School and Community Services: Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy.

Darcie will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of YRDSB’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy (DABRS). A significant part of the role includes supporting all YRDSB staff in acquiring the racial literacy skills needed to recognize, discuss, dismantle and disrupt racist ideologies that perpetuate the disparities that Black students face.

“I am happy to welcome Darcie to her new role. Darcie has 20 years of experience working in schools and various leadership positions in our board,” said Louise Sirisko, Director of Education. “She has extensive knowledge in the areas of equity, anti-racism, anti-Black racism, anti-oppression and the impact of marginalization on student achievement and well-being.”

Darcie is currently Acting Principal of Castlemore Public School in Markham. She completed her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education at York University before earning a Master of Education at the University of Toronto. Darcie began her career in 2001 as a teacher at Markham Gateway Public School. Since then, she has been a mentor teacher, Chair of the Alliance of Educators for Black Students (AEBS), Teacher, Vice-Principal and Acting Principal at various schools in Markham. In 2014, Darcie worked with the Board’s Inclusive School and Community Services as a Teacher Liaison for students of African and Caribbean descent for a three-year term.

“I am excited to take on this role and for the opportunity to champion equity and inclusivity across York Region District School Board,” said Darcie. “I look forward to supporting all of our schools in implementing the actions within the Anti-Black Racism Strategy to support Black students in achieving excellent outcomes and reaching their full potential and to create positive and affirming spaces to learn and work.”

Darcie begins her new role on Sept. 1, 2021.