Clearview Public Schools will have a new director of inclusive learning to start the 2023-24 school year.
Botha School principal Candace Hodder will be taking over the role once long-time Clearview educator Wendy Coppock calls it a career and retires at the end of the current school year.
“We are excited that Candace has accepted this important leadership role and will be joining the Clearview management team,” said Scot Leys, Clearview Superintendent via a media release.
“Candace’s experience as a leader and her focus on literacy, mental health and learning facilitation will serve her well in her work as Clearview’s director of inclusive learning. In her new role, she will use her knowledge and experience to support students’ inclusive education needs and ensure all students have opportunities to learn and thrive.”
The position oversees early learning, mental health, family school liaison staff, speech-language pathologists and the occupational therapist for the division. Other responsibilities of the position include student psychological testing, leading First Nation, Metis, and Inuit programming, guiding and supporting the divisional nutrition program and providing staff with inclusive support and training.
“I am very excited to be stepping into the role of inclusive learning director for Clearview and continuing the great work that is already in motion,” said Hodder.
“It is an incredible honour to have the opportunity to be part of a team that fosters a culture of acceptance, diversity, and limitless potential. For me, this work is not just a profession, it is a natural extension of who I am. It aligns with my values, passions and innate desire to make a difference in this world. It is the chance to uplift and empower our youth and, at the same time, shape our future with love and compassion.”
Hodder has been with Clearview Public Schools since the beginning of the 2022-23 school year when she took over as principal of Botha School. An educator for 12 years, Hodder spent five years as assistant principal of Bashaw School in the Battle River School Division before making the move to Clearview.
According to the media release announcing the appointment, Hodder has significant experience as an educator and an ability to ensure that learning needs are met and addressed. She holds a masters degree with a focus on the mental health and wellness of students and staff, and she has done extensive work around literacy intervention.
“While I am excited for this new role, it also comes with a heavy heart as it means leaving the amazing students, staff and families of Botha School,” explains Hodder.
“This will not be easy as I have grown to care deeply about everyone there and all the potential this little school has. I have appreciated the support everyone has given me, along with the connections we have built. I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart.”
