Durham Catholic District School Board Director of Education Announces Retirement

At the Regular Board Meeting on February 26, 2024, Tracy Barill, Director of Education, announced her retirement after a 36-year career in Catholic education.

Director Barill began her career with DCDSB in 1988 as an Educational Assistant. Over the years, Ms. Barill went on to hold positions as a classroom teacher, Vice Principal, Principal and Superintendent of Education. A valued member of the DCDSB Senior Administrative team since 2007, Ms. Barill was appointed to the position of Director of Education in 2020.

“I have been blessed to be a part of the Durham Catholic learning community for most of my life, beginning as a student at St. Joseph’s when I was in Grade 4,” said Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “I am deeply grateful for the many, valued relationships formed with students, families, and colleagues who I have had the pleasure of working with over the years. To be entrusted with leading the Board as Director of Education has been a true honour and highlight of my life.”

During Ms. Barill’s tenure as Director, the DCDSB expanded to include new schools and additions to accommodate a growing student population, all while leading the board through COVID-19 and unprecedented provincial labour disruptions. Throughout these challenges, Ms. Barill maintained a focus on student needs while managing a balanced budget.

Grounded in faith and committed to innovations in instructional practice, Ms. Barill led Durham Catholic through a collaborative consultation and development process to establish the board’s new multi-year plan, Inspire 2026. Through a comprehensive engagement strategy, new mission, vision and values statements for the board were adopted to accompany and inform the new strategic plan.

Director Barill is a strong advocate for advances in Indigenous Education and Human Rights and Equity, focusing on improving student achievement and well-being, and breaking down systemic barriers for vulnerable and/or equity deserving groups. Under Ms. Barill’s direction, the board established Indigenous Education and Human Rights and Equity departments for the first time, which have flourished over the years. These departments now facilitate various initiatives and committees, including the Indigenous Education Circle, Anti-Black Racism and Black Excellence Advisory Committee, 2SLGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, and related affinity and support groups for students. Ms. Barill’s belief in embedding community engagement and centring community voice has been integral in creating these new strategic priorities for the board.

Director Barill focused on ensuring staff have opportunities to engage, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging as members of the Durham Catholic learning community. Her priority to improve internal communications, staff wellness, and expanded professional development opportunities, has benefited staff and students. Ms. Barill’s efforts to ensure DCDSB is a welcoming and respectful place to learn, work, and grow, was recognized this year when the board was included on the Forbes list of Canada’s Best Employers in 2024 and is the highest-ranking school board in Ontario.

In addition to her professional duties with the board, Ms. Barill advocates for Catholic education at a provincial and national level through her work with various community and educational organizations. She is proud to be this year’s President of the Ontario Catholic Supervisory Officers’ Association, which represents all Catholic Directors and Superintendents across the province.

“On behalf of the entire DCDSB community, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to Director Barill for her leadership and dedication over the years,” said Monique Forster, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve with Director Barill, whose focus on centring students and empowering student voice is a constant reminder of who we are here to serve. Her vast knowledge, experience, and commitment to Catholic education are unparalleled. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we wish Ms. Barill all the very best in her retirement.”

“It has been an honour to serve our Durham Catholic learning community for the past 36 years,” said Tracy Barill. “I announce my retirement with the knowledge that the board is in competent and compassionate hands under the leadership of the Board of Trustees and Senior Administration Team.”

Director Barill will be retiring as of August 31, 2024. The Board of Trustees will begin the selection process for the next Director of Education over the next few months. As part of the succession plan, Ms. Barill will work with the new Director to ensure a smooth transition.