Getting to know Tracy Barill, Director of Education
The Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) is pleased to welcome Tracy Barill to the position of Director of Education.
An educator and leader for over 26 years, Tracy has led an impactful career in Catholic education and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position. She holds a Master’s Degree in Religious Education from St. Paul University and has earned many certificates of leadership. Tracy is also actively involved with her parish, serving as a lector at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Oshawa.
On behalf of the DCDSB learning community, we’ve asked Tracy a few questions to get to know her as a system leader. Thank you Tracy for taking the time to chat with us as you begin your new role.
Why did you apply for the position of Director of Education?
I chose to apply to the position of Director of Education because I care deeply about the people in this board and about the well-being and success of our students. This board has played a huge role in my own life and formation as a person and in the lives of my family. As Director of Education, I hope that I will be able to give back to our faith community which has given so much to me.
What is your philosophy on Catholic education?
In Catholic schools we have the unique opportunity to educate students through the lens of our faith, which means that we see each child as being created in the image and likeness of God. Our faith calls us to love one another. Caring for our students is therefore more than a job, it is a sacred vocation entrusted to us as community.
What do you believe to be the greatest strength within our Catholic school system?
Our people are our greatest strength. As a Catholic school system we are at our very best when staff, families and clergy recognize and respect the powerful impact of working in collaboration with one another to support our students.
What are your highest priorities for the board as you take on the role of Director of Education?
As Director of Education, my highest priority is to fully realize the core commitments of our board’s strategic plan, Discovery 2023: Renewing the Vision; namely to ensure that each one of our school communities is Rooted in Faith as a model of excellence, striving to create equitable learning environments, and committed to authentic engagement.
As a Catholic school board, how can we support the faith formation and well-being of each student and staff member?
We can support faith formation and well-being by:
- being true to our foundation of home, school and parish;
- providing intentional opportunities for faith formation (prayer, Mass, liturgies, retreats, and other faith-based activities);
- prioritizing what matters most;
- budgeting according to our priorities in keeping with provincial standards and Ministry guidelines.
What can we do in our schools to strengthen home-school-parish connections?
- Recognize that these relationships are critical to student well-being, faith formation and success.
- Work together at all times, respectfully, especially in moments of disagreement.
How can staff, parents and guardians support our 21st century learners in 2020?
Focus on thinking, application, the development of learning skills and values (as opposed to simple memorization of knowledge) is one of the most important things staff, parents and guardians can do to support 21st century learners. In a world that is information rich, learners need learning skills and values to understand, assess, reflect upon and use the knowledge that they are readily able to access.
What do you believe are the most essential tools that students need to be successful in school today?
While tools such as computers, laptops and other technology can be accelerators of learning and are important – the most essential key to student success today is having caring adults (educators, family members) who:
- believe in their abilities;
- provide them with varied opportunities to "show what they know";
- lead by example; and
- actively foster their growth mindset.
What is your favourite quote on leadership?
“Act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
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