The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) has named Eryn Smit as the new Superintendent of Education – Indigenous Education / Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Justice. The appointment takes effect on April 14, 2025.
Smit, currently Principal at Cathcart Boulevard Public School, brings extensive experience and leadership to the role. His past positions include Principal at Victor Lauriston Public School, P.E. McGibbon Public School, and Zone Township Central School, covering both urban and rural school communities in Sarnia-Lambton and Chatham-Kent.
He holds a Master of Professional Education in Educational Leadership from Western University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto.
In his new position, Smit will report directly to the Director of Education and will oversee a range of strategic initiatives focused on student achievement, anti-oppressive education, and community engagement. He will also serve as a liaison with the four First Nations partnered with LKDSB, and take on leadership of programs including the Board Indigenous Action Plan (BIAP), Indigenous Teacher Education Program (ITEP), Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Education, and Newcomer support.
Smit will also be responsible for several Kindergarten to Grade 12 families of schools, supporting school-based decision-making.
His experience includes work as an International Education Principal, leadership roles with the Ontario Principals’ Council, and coordination of the Indigenous Teacher Education Program through Queen's University. He also served on the Board of Directors for LINCK (formerly Chatham-Kent Children’s Services) from 2013 to 2019, including time as Chair and as the Board’s representative to the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies.
“We are thrilled to welcome Eryn as our new Superintendent of Education,” said Gary Girardi, LKDSB’s incoming Director of Education. “Eryn’s dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion, along with a proven track record of leadership and innovation, will be invaluable as we continue to build on our strategic priorities and support the success of every student, every day.”
Smit also shared his enthusiasm for the position, stating: “I am honoured to step into this position and look forward to working collaboratively with our staff, students, families, and community partners. Together, we will continue to foster inclusive and supportive learning environments where every student can thrive.”
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