Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

Nadine Peterson, General Director of the Centre de services scolaire des Portages-de-l’Outaouais (CSSPO), announces her departure after 27 years with the organization. As of September 9, she will be starting her new position as the Senior Executive Director of Pedagogy and Teaching Services with the Ministry of Education’s Educational Success and Workforce team.

“I’ve had the great privilege of guiding an extraordinary team. Together, we have been able to stay focused on the success of our students, while respecting the values dear to our organization,” said Peterson in a statement announcing her departure. “I would like to thank the CSSPO staff, the members of the Board of Directors and the partners who make such a difference to the educational community. I leave with a heavy heart, but with great confidence in the future of the CSSPO. I rejoice in the knowledge that we will all be pursuing the same educational mission.”

Peterson started her position as General Director with CSSPO in October 2019. The school service center states that she played an important role in creating a culture of collaboration allowing CSSPO to stand out as an organization. She led the organization through many challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, where she kept her team motivated and guided staff to ensure students’ success.

She is known for her commitment to education. She began her career as a daycare educator, then became a teacher, an elementary school principal, and then a high school principal. Afterwards, Peterson became Director of Educational Resources followed by Assistant General Director, before becoming Director General of CSSPO.

Kim Jessome, Chair of the CSSPO Board of Directors, echoes this sentiment in her statement: “Peterson’s many years of service to the CSSPO and as Executive Director will leave an indelible mark on the history of the organization, as well as in the hearts of those who came into contact with her. Her commitment and involvement in numerous bodies contributed to the reputation of the CSSPO. She led the organization through a period of significant change, while remaining focused on students’ success. This is all to her credit.”

The process to appoint a replacement is underway. The Board of Directors will make the announcement in the coming days.
Photo: Courtesy