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YORK REGION, Ontario — Educator, Darcie Sutherland, was appointed, two weeks ago, as Principal of Inclusive School and Community Services, with responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the York Region District School Board’s (YRDSB) Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Strategy (DABRS).
A significant part of her role will include supporting all YRDSB staff in acquiring the racial literacy skills needed to recognize, discuss, dismantle and disrupt racist ideologies that perpetuate the disparities that Black students face.
“I am happy to welcome Darcie to her new role. Darcie has 20 years of experience working in schools and various leadership positions in our Board,” said Louise Sirisko, YRDSB’s Director of Education.
“She has extensive knowledge in the areas of equity, anti-racism, anti-Black racism, anti-oppression and the impact of marginalization on student achievement and well-being.”
Currently the Acting-Principal of Castlemore Public School in Markham, Sutherland completed her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees at York University, before earning a Master of Education at the University of Toronto.
She began her career in 2001, as a teacher at Markham Gateway Public School and, since then, has been a mentor teacher; Chair of the Alliance of Educators for Black Students (AEBS); and a teacher, Vice-Principal and Acting Principal at various schools in Markham.
In 2014, Sutherland worked with the Board’s Inclusive School and Community Services, as a Teacher Liaison for students of African and Caribbean descent, for a three year term.
“I am excited to take on this role, and for the opportunity to champion equity and inclusivity across York Region District School Board,” commented Sutherland, who begins her new role on September 1, 2021.
“I look forward to supporting all of our schools, in implementing the actions, within the Anti-Black Racism Strategy, to support Black students in achieving excellent outcomes and reaching their full potential, and to create positive and affirming spaces to learn and work,” she added.
The YRDSB is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 128,000 students in 180 elementary schools and 33 secondary schools. Its students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario.
