CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C -Debra Martel is the new District Principal of Indigenous Education for School District 72.
Martel has 30 years of experience in education, including extensive knowledge of both the K-12 and post-secondary systems.
She joins School District 72 from the University of British Columbia, where she served as the Associate Director of the university’s First Nations House of Learning.
Superintendent of Schools and CEO, Dr. Jeremy Morrow says Martel will play an important role for SD72.
“Debra is highly regarded for her ability to create safe places for dialogue and strong relationships. She has a deep personal knowledge and understanding of Indigenous histories and colonial impacts, as well as the need to advance the calls to action of Truth and Reconciliation, both professionally and as a proud Métis woman.”
“We are confident that her additional knowledge and experience in post-secondary will build our capacity to successfully help our Indigenous students advance in their educational aspirations.”
Martel will now work alongside the We Wai Kai First Nations, Wei Wai Kum First Nations, Kwiakah First Nations, Xwemalhkwu First Nations, Klahoose First Nations, Kwakiutl District Council, North Island Métis Association, Laichwiltach Family Life Society, Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council, Homalco First Nation and Indigenous Education department staff to continue to advance School District 72’s Indigenous Education Agreement.
