Bluewater District School Board (BWDSB) announces further changes to the senior leadership team with the appointment of Erin O’Grady as Superintendent of Education effective August 1, 2026.
The appointment coincides with the departure of Sheryl Elliott, who has been filling in as Superintendent of Education for the past year. BWDSB is deeply grateful to Sheryl for her willingness to temporarily step out of retirement to cover this vacancy at a critical time.
In addition to a teaching career spanning over a decade, Erin’s experience includes many years serving in leadership roles, such as Principal, Vice-Principal, and Head of Student Services at Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. She prides her leadership on listening and understanding community needs before moving to action. In her experience, some of the most meaningful system leadership happens when we help others grow and thrive. She is excited about helping educators and school leaders use evidence, innovation, and strong instructional practice to improve student outcomes, and believes that strong systems are built through strong relationships with staff, students, families, trustees, and partners.
As someone who grew up in a rural community but spent most of her professional career in an urban hub, assuming the superintendent role in Bluewater represents an opportunity for her to contribute to a district where schools are deeply connected to community life.
“I am thrilled to be joining Bluewater District School Board and beginning this new chapter both professionally and personally,” says O’Grady. “The opportunity to support schools in a region where community connections are so deeply valued is incredibly meaningful to me. I look forward to building relationships across the district, supporting educators and leaders, and working together to ensure every student experiences a strong sense of belonging and achievement.”
“It is a pleasure to congratulate and welcome Erin as a new member of the senior leadership team to help guide our work supporting Bluewater students and families across the system. Erin brings a wealth of experience as an educational leader, innovator, and changemaker, and has built a remarkable record of achievement through the collaborative, inclusive, and ‘students first’ approach that defines her work,” says Chief Executive Officer AJ Keene. “I would also like to extend sincerest appreciation to Sheryl Elliott for her dedicated service and commitment this past year. We wish her the absolute best as she resumes her well-earned retirement.”
Erin’s responsibilities will include overseeing and supporting an area of schools and a portfolio of system duties.
