West Kelowna principal recognized as one of Canada's best

A West Kelowna principal is getting recognition as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals in 2017.

Mar Jok Elementary’s Alida Privett is one of just four B.C. principals to be honoured.

“It’s a great honour to be recognized, very humbling,” Privett told KelownaNow. “It really speaks to the amazing team we have at Mar Jok.”

It’s not just those at Mar Jok Elementary, however, as Privett was quick to credit the entire Central Okanagan school district.

“I think it’s important for each of us in SD23 to acknowledge what a wonderful district we’re in,” Privett said, pointing out that B.C. is one of the top places in the world when it comes to education. “The children are served well.”

There’s a total of 40 principals across the country that are being honoured by The Learning Partnership as one of Canada’s most outstanding principals.

Principals are chosen based on a criteria made up of leadership, student achievement, innovation, instructional leadership, professional learning teams, partnerships with families and communities, personal growth initiatives and corresponding letters of support.

The partnership is in its 13th year of recognizing the unique and vital contributions of principals in publicly funded schools.

“We are delighted to be celebrating these exceptional principals for their contributions to their schools and communities,” said Rod Thompson from The Learning Partnership. “Their dedication to building and leading teams of great teachers plays a vital role in positively impacting student achievement and success and we are elated to recognize these dynamic leaders in the Canada public education system.”

Principals are nominated by parents, colleagues and community member, before being narrowed down to just 40 names by a national selection committee.

As part of being recognized, Privett will travel to Toronto in February for five-day executive leadership training program, as well as a gala for the honourees.

Privett says the trip will give her a chance to continue her learning at the national level, both from the workshop and the other 39 principals.