Hurkett fills curriculum position

As the 2013-2014 school year is upon us for students, parents and teachers throughout the area, the administration of Horizon School Division has seen some big changes during the summer months.

With the promotion of former associate superintendent Wilco Tymensen to the role of superintendent, a number of administrative positions needed to be filled.

Taking over in Tymensen’s former role as associate superintendent of curriculum and instruction is Erin Hurkett, who most recently served in the division, as principal of Chamberlain School in Grassy Lake.

“I have always been a teacher in Horizon School Division,” said Hurkett.

“I’ve taught at Vauxhall Elementary, as well as Chamberlain School in Grassy Lake. I was the vice-principal at Chamberlain School for four years, and then principal at Chamberlain School for three years. I have my Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Lethbridge, and now I’m the associate superintendent.”

An ardour for the area she is now responsible for prompted Hurkett to apply for the position when it became available.

“Definitely my passion in the area of curriculum and instruction, as well as I really am motivated by empowering and building capacity within leaders and teachers within the jurisdiction.”

Hurkett brings a breadth of experience to the role, with a focus on early and adolescent literacy, and is known to be a student-centred instructional leader who strives for excellence.

“I definitely want to continue striving towards the goals of the division, and collaborating with all of the principals and administration and teachers, just to continue with that work, which I think is really positive and forward-thinking, and just to continue on that journey.”

She is looking forward to getting down to administrative business in Horizon School Division throughout the present school year.

“I’m extremely excited, I feel really honoured to be in this position. Again, it’s the area of my greatest passion, and I really enjoy working with the administration team within Horizon, and all of the teachers, so I’ve been really excited to take on this position.”

Hurkett is well versed in English language learner pedagogy and deliberate professional development that builds teacher capacity and student success.

“I believe strongly in collaboration, so I’m a very collaborative-type person, which I think is really important for this role. I think I excel in the area of building capacity and helping other people better their teaching practices, and their leadership practices, and I think those are the qualifications that will really help me in this leadership role.”

In her time outside the office, Hurkett enjoys being with her family and engaging in various recreational activities.

“I live in Lethbridge with my husband Brad, and my two children. We enjoy doing a lot of outdoor activities. Personally, I enjoy running and skiing, and lots of other outdoor recreational activities with the family. And I’m always an avid reader and researcher.”

She has a message for parents, teachers and community members throughout Horizon School Division.

“I’m really hounoured to be in this position, and I really look forward to working at all levels of the school system, with students, and teachers, and administration and the school board, and the greater community at large.”