The Board of Education announces the retirement of Terry-Lee Beaudry, Deputy Superintendent of Schools, after 43 years of service with Central Okanagan Public Schools.
"For over four decades, Deputy Superintendent Beaudry has deeply affected our district, and over the last 10 years, she had a personally meaningful impact on me as a Trustee," said Lee-Ann Tiede, Board Chairperson. "Her role as a bridge between our district and the world is invaluable. Whether fostering relationships with international delegates or supporting students and staff through academic challenges, her influence is profound. We are fortunate and grateful to have her leadership, dedication, and unwavering support."
After growing up in the Central Okanagan and graduating from Rutland Senior Secondary, Mrs. Beaudry attended the University of British Columbia before returning to the Central Okanagan to teach in 1981.
"Terry-Lee Beaudry led a storied career as teacher, school administrator, Director of Instruction, Assistant Superintendent, and Deputy Superintendent," said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "She shared her passion for education widely, and her impact on our district will remain evident through both her own legacy and the work of her many colleagues and friends."
As a champion for Truth and Reconciliation, Beaudry affected change in the Central Okanagan and beyond. She guided the development of Central Okanagan Public Schools' Equity in Action for Truth and Reconciliation Agreement, deepening relationships with the Westbank First Nation (WFN), the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB), and other Indigenous Education rights holders. The Agreement is a guide to commitment to Indigenous student success and has been recognized provincially as a model of excellence.
She also organized collaborative opportunities for new teachers and worked with the BC Principals and Vice-Principals Association, for over twenty years, to embed reconciliation practices within Foundations coursework for new administrators.
Beaudry came alongside UBC Faculty and local Indigenous Knowledge Holders to re-imagine the UBC-Okanagan School of Education Teacher Education Program, became an Adjunct Professor for UBC, and received the ABCDE Education Advocate of the Year 鈥� Outstanding Service to BC Public Education award, as well as the UBC Alumni Builder Award. She also deepened the school district's relationship with the Yukon First Nations Education Directorate to share learning about Indigenous advocacy in schools.
"It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to have spent my entire professional career in Central Okanagan Public Schools, supporting the needs of our community's children and families," said Beaudry. "I feel incredibly fortunate and proud to have worked with such exceptional colleagues, students, parents/caregivers, and community members over the years to enhance learning for all students. I regard it an honour to have collaborated with Indigenous rights holders and leaders to advance reconciliation in our schools and communities. Although I look forward to life's next chapter, I will always hold SD23 in my heart!"
Currently on secondment with the Ministry of Education and Childcare, Terry-Lee will return to the District in mid-November. Terry-Lee Beaudry's last day of work will be December 31, 2024. Central Okanagan Public Schools' Board of Education wishes her joy and success on her new journey in retirement.
