Although Pexsisen Elementary and Centre Mountain Lellum Middle schools are still in the framing stages of construction, two principals have been announced to lead SD62’s newest schools.
Karen DeCicco will take the helm of the 500-seat Pexsisen Elementary School and veteran SD62 employee, Darren Russell, will lead the 700-seat Centre Mountain Lellum Middle School.
“It is going to be a wonderful adventure of collaboration and connection as we work together to welcome students, staff and families into their new neighbourhood school,” says DeCicco. “I’m thrilled and humbled to be chosen as Principal of Pexsisen Elementary School.”
“I am honoured to be given this amazing opportunity,” says Russell. “These schools are state-of-the-art, and I look forward to seeing the students thrive in them when we open in September 2022.”
DeCicco and Russell will step into their new positions in Spring 2022, where they will help support staffing, scheduling, building Parent Advisory Committees and more for the two new schools.
As the current Principal of Crystal View Elementary and previously at Happy Valley Elementary, DeCicco brings her knowledge of running larger elementary schools. Moving into his 31st year in SD62, Russell’s administrative experience spans Belmont Secondary, Dunsmuir Middle School and currently, Spencer Middle School.
“Both of these leaders will be excellent in their roles, creating new school communities and guiding families in West Langford,” says Ravi Parmar, SD62 Chairperson. “The Board set out to create more space and choice by providing learning environments that will truly inspire and engage; that’s what these two new schools will do.”
Both Pexsisen Elementary and Centre Mountain Lellum Middle schools are slated to open their doors in September 2022 – on time and on budget.
Take virtual tours of the schools and find out more about growth in the district on the New Schools page.