The Red Deer Catholic Regional School Division has appointed Paul Mason as the new superintendent of schools, effective Aug. 27.
Mason was promoted from associate superintendent of personnel services for the division. He has held that position since April 2007.
Board chair Adriana LaGrange said Mason is extremely organized, knowledgeable and has great interpersonal skills.
“We are absolutely thrilled that we were able to promote from within,” she said, noting that applications came in from all over Canada.
LaGrange said she is confident that Mason will move the division forward with unique ideas while at the same time maintaining the division's excellent standards.
Mason has previous experience as the director of instruction with Wetaskawin Regional Public Schools. He is currently working on a doctorate at the University of Calgary.
Mason said he is looking forward to building on the work Paulette Hannah has done in the division.
“I'm very excited and fortunate to be given this opportunity,” he said. “I look forward to maintaining the tradition of excellence and success in the school division.”
Mason said he is also looking forward to the opening of Holy Trinity School at its new location in Olds on Sept. 1.
Mason said his role as associate superintendent of personnel kept him busy hiring and placing all staff.
“It's a busy position to have,” he said.
Mason, who received his M.A. from San Diego University, is currently completing a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Calgary. He hopes to complete that by the end of 2012.
“I have completed my coursework. This summer I completed … my candidacy examination and now I look forward to beginning my research in the field,” he said.
