The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) is proud to announce the appointment of Gary Girardi as the new Director of Education. A long-serving member of the LKDSB, Girardi brings over 25 years of experience, a deep-rooted commitment to the communities of Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton, and a personal belief that the foundation for student success is built on safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environments.
Girardi’s journey to the top leadership position at LKDSB has been marked by dedication, service, and continuous growth. His parents arrived in Canada after World War II and instilled in him a deep appreciation for the transformative power of public education. “Public education is a cornerstone of Canadian society,” Girardi says. “Having access to it is something I don’t take for granted. It’s a right for everybody, and I have dedicated my life to ensuring that.”
Having held various roles across the Board, including teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, and Superintendent of Education, Girardi’s diverse classroom and leadership experience has given him a comprehensive understanding of the needs of students, staff, and the wider community. In his most recent role as Superintendent, he focused on advancing student achievement, equity, and community collaboration while overseeing human resources, safe schools and leadership development.
“Gary’s wealth of experience, his commitment to community, and his dedication to creating an environment where every student, staff member, and family feels valued make him the ideal leader for the LKDSB,” says Kelley Robertson, Chair of the LKDSB. “His passion for education and belief in the power of safe and inclusive schools will continue to drive the success of our Board and the future of our students.”
“Working together is key to ensuring we’re providing the best possible environment for students and staff,” Girardi shares. “It’s not just about what we do, but how we do it. By ensuring that everyone feels heard, supported, and valued, we can achieve the best outcomes for our students and our community.”
Girardi will officially step into this new role on May 1, 2025. He is already focused on continuing the Board’s strong work in building a healthy, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all. He remains committed to upholding the values of equity, respect, and accessibility, ensuring that every individual who walks through the doors of the LKDSB feels they belong and can thrive.
“I am honoured to begin my work as the Director of Education for the Lambton Kent District School Board. It is a privilege to serve this community and work alongside our dedicated educators, staff, and families to provide our students with the best learning experiences. I believe that education is the foundation of a strong, thriving society, and I am committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and supportive environment where every student can succeed.”