The Grand Erie District School Board has announced the election of Susan Gibson as Chair and Tom Waldschmidt as Vice-Chair for the upcoming year. The leadership appointments were finalized during the Board’s annual Nomination and Organization meeting held on Monday, December 9.
Gibson, who represents the City of Brantford, begins her fourth consecutive term as Chair. She was first elected to the Board in 2018 and brings over 20 years of experience as a healthcare leader to her role in education.
“I’m deeply honoured to serve as Chair of the Grand Erie District School Board for another term,” Gibson said. “I’m committed to working alongside my fellow trustees, staff, and our communities to ensure every student in Grand Erie has the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive and innovative learning environment. Together, we will continue to prioritize learning, well-being, and belonging.”
Gibson’s passion for advocacy and problem-solving has been a hallmark of her tenure, with a focus on collaboration to support student success.
Tom Waldschmidt, representing Norfolk County (Wards 3 and 7) and Brant County, begins his first term as Vice-Chair. A Trustee since 2013, Waldschmidt has a long-standing connection to the Board, which began when he joined the school council at Paris Central Elementary School in 2005. He later served as Chair of the Grand Erie Parent Involvement Committee and has led both the Audit Committee and the Special Education Advisory Committee.
“As a Board, we’ve achieved much progress toward our strategic goals and priorities, and I’m excited to build on that momentum together,” Waldschmidt said. “As Vice-Chair, my focus on fostering learning, well-being, and belonging remains steadfast as we continue to create a supportive and inclusive environment where all students and staff can thrive.”
Director of Education JoAnna Roberto also spoke at the meeting, reflecting on the accomplishments of the 2023-24 school year, many of which are featured in the Director’s Annual Report.
“Every day in Grand Erie, when students walk through our doors, they aren’t just entering a building but a place of inspiration—where they will learn, lead, and inspire,” Roberto said. “It’s our responsibility to make that happen. This school year, we continue to be guided by the Board’s strategic plan with student success at the centre of everything we do.”
The Grand Erie District School Board serves more than 28,000 students across 58 elementary schools and 14 secondary schools in Brantford, Brant County, Haldimand County, and Norfolk County, as well as secondary students from Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Supported by a dedicated team of more than 2,700 staff, the Board remains committed to fostering a culture of learning, leadership, and inspiration.
