A series of changes within Red Deer Catholic Schools system has provided a new opportunity for Dorice Swensrude who assumes the role of principal at École Mother Teresa School after just over three years in a similar position at Our Lady of the Rosary School.
“I’m really excited to be at Mother Teresa,” she said Tuesday during her first morning at the school. “I’m looking forward to working with students, parents and the fabulous staff that is here.”
It was with mixed emotions that she accepted the new challenge, Swensrude indicated.
“As I look back on my time at Our Lady of the Rosary School, I realize how blessed I have been to be part of such a fabulous school community,” she wrote in a letter to parents. “I wish to thank each and every one of you for making such a positive, immeasurable contribution to our school community. I thank you, straight from my heart, for providing me with so many blessings as we worked together and for working with me to achieve what one dreams of in Catholic education, a school with a reputation for excellence in academics and for excellence in faith development.
“It’s difficult to capture in words the beautiful and caring environment that has evolved at Our Lady of the Rosary School. I know it has become what it is because of the love that is shared amongst all of the great people involved in our school.”
She added that her “fondest and most cherished memories will most definitely be of your children. I will miss the many smiles, hugs, stories and expressions of kindness that have brought countless moments of joy and fulfillment to my professional life.”
About her new position, Swensrude said, “I look forward to continuing to build upon the strong reputation that École Mother Teresa School has in the community of Sylvan Lake. I want to work in a team with students, parents and staff to continue to improve the school. I look forward to a most enriching and exciting leadership journey.”
Before joining Our Lady of the Rosary, Swensrude had served as vice principal at École Mountview Elementary (4 years) and École Oriole Park Elementary (7 years) schools with Red Deer Public Schools. During her time at Mountview she also worked at the division office as curriculum specialist for French Immersion.
Prior to work in Red Deer she was the French Immersion team leader at Upper Lacombe Elementary where she taught Grade 3 students. She also taught Grade 1 and 2 French Immersion students at École Rocky Elementary School.
Her post-secondary education includes two bachelors degrees as well as a Masters in Science, Educational Policy and Management, from the University of Oregon.