ABOUT THE BOARD

The Protestant Separate School Board of the Town of Penetanguishene provides a unique and dynamic learning environment for students. It has had a historic involvement in the Town of Penetanguishene, on the shores of Georgian Bay, in Ontario that dates back to the 19th century. Its continued relevance is due to a successful partnership among a variety of stakeholders who work together to enhance and advance student achievement through academic and extra-curricular activities. Individuals and organizations within the local community actively support and enrich our school environment.

Our only school, Burkevale Protestant Separate School, is a Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 elementary school. The Burkevale staff is hard-working, caring and creative and committed to developing the God-given talents within each individual child. The parents and guardians are active not only as School Council members but as volunteers within the school. The School Council organizes a variety of events and fundraisers, for different educational activities and supports activities that serve to enhance school climate in a variety of ways.

The School Board provides significant support to staff development and student programs at Burkevale. These supports have included support for specific school programs by approving funding for musical instruments and technology resources to enhance the Arts and the integration of technology into the various curriculum areas.

Mission
Statement

The Protestant Separate School Board of the Town of Penetanguishene, in partnership with home support, is committed to encouraging all students to achieve their full potential spiritually, academically, physically and socially in preparation toward becoming a contributing member of society.

Vision
Statement

The Protestant Separate School Board of the Town of Penetanguishene inspires in students a life-long love of learning by supporting their development, potential, and sense of self-worth, while honouring their individuality.

Values
Statement

The Protestant Separate School Board of the Town of Penetanguishene believes in:

SPIRITUAL WELL-BEING

  • The living and modelling of Christian values;
  • Respecting the individual journey of each person in the spirit of inclusivity and equity;

ACADEMIC WELL-BEING

  • The dignity of each individual in the learning process;
  • Setting the framework for academic excellence;
  • Excellence and accountability in instruction;
  • Establishing and maintaining a positive learning and working environment;
  • A diverse curriculum that celebrates the arts, innovation, and creative inquiry;

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING

  • Promoting and fostering the development of healthy lifestyles;

RELATIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS

  • Fostering social awareness and environmental consciousness;
  • Collaboration with community partners;

RESPONSIBLE AND PURPOSEFUL USE OF  BOARD RESOURCES

  • Responsible financial stewardship; and
  • Excellence and accountability in board and school operations.

Board Office Staff

Tim Overholt

Supervisory Officer

Sean Turner

Manager of Finance & Treasurer

Deanna Van Rooyen

Administrative Assistant

Karen Lizotte

Administrative Assistant

Christy Hamill

Mental Health and Well-Being & Multi-Disciplinary Team Leader

Joanne Merkley

Early Years Lead

laura leslie

Child & Youth Worker

Board of Trustees

If you would like to get in touch with one of our Trustees, please feel free to email us.

View the Trustee Good Governance Guide for more information about being a School Board Trustee.

Lynne Cousens – Chair
Cathie Sindall – Vice-Chair
Greg Craftchick – Board Member
Elizabeth DesRochers – Board Member
Kyle Graham – Board Member
April LeBlanc – Board Member
Lindsay Stewart – Board Member

Our History

1882

The Board was officially chartered by the Province of Ontario, and the school's original two-storey red brick building was built.

1909

An addition was added on to the original school.

1965

The original school structure was demolished to construct the current main school building at 39 Burke Street.

1991

A 4-classroom port-a-pak was built to support the increase in enrolment at Burkevale.

2006

The Board Office relocates off-site to allow for more space at the school.

2016

Four new permanent classrooms were built on the north side of the main building. All new environmentally-friendly HVAC and lighting were also installed. New playground spaces and parking lots were formed.

2020

The PSSBP and Burkevale were forced to navigate a worldwide pandemic. Online learning was introduced periodically, as schools across the province were forced to close.

Employment Opportunities

All positions at The Protestant Separate School Board of the Town of Penetanguishene support the Board’s priority of providing an educational environment that encourages all students to achieve their full potential towards well-being – spiritually, academically, physically, and socially – in preparation toward becoming contributing members of society.

We look forward to having you join our team!

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