Principal at ÉOJHS announces June 2026 retirement
Every school has shaped me in meaningful ways, and I am sincerely grateful for the relationships, memories, and opportunities they provided.
Please join us to congratulate Ms. Dorothy Paszkowski, Principal at École Okotoks Junior High School (ÉOJHS), who will be retiring on June 30, 2026. This marks the conclusion of her remarkable 33-year career as a teacher and leader within the Foothills School Division.
Ms. Paszkowski’s distinguished career with the Foothills School Division began in 1993 at École Okotoks Junior High School (ÉOJHS), where she inspired students as a Band and Junior High Humanities teacher. In 1998, Dorothy transitioned to Oilfields School, where she played a pivotal role in launching the Division’s regional band program, an initiative that continues to enrich music education for students across all schools that feed into Oilfields.
Her passion for innovative teaching led her to Dr. Morris Gibson School in 2003, where she collaborated as part of a dynamic Grade 2 team, further expanding her pedagogical expertise. Dorothy entered school leadership in 2011, serving as vice principal at École Secondaire Foothills Composite High School | Alberta High School of Fine Arts (ÉSFCHS | AHSFA), and later as vice principal at École Senator Riley Middle School in 2015.
In 2022, Ms. Paszkowski returned to where her journey began, stepping into the role of Principal at ÉOJHS. Dorothy’s focus on school culture where student learning and well-being are prioritized has been key in advancing support, success and engagement in the Division’s only Junior High School. Likewise, her dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence have left a lasting legacy throughout the Division.
Ms. Paszkowski’s pursuit of excellence is evident in her academic credentials: she holds both a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Education from Brandon University, and a Master of Education (Leadership) from Gonzaga University. Additionally, she is certified with the Alberta Education Leadership Quality Standard, highlighting her devotion to educational leadership.
As Ms. Paszkowski begins this new chapter, we acknowledge her years of service and leadership. Her work has influenced many students and educators, and her impact will remain significant.
As she prepares for her June retirement Dorothy shares the following:
“As I move onto the next chapter, I do so with deep gratitude for the people and communities that have touched my heart throughout my career in FSD. I have had the privilege of working in nine different Foothills schools, each with its own unique culture, and sense of community. Every school has shaped me in meaningful ways, and I am sincerely grateful for the relationships, memories, and opportunities they provided.
I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional educators who are deeply committed to students’ success and well‑being. Some of my most cherished memories come from the band, musical theatre, and guitar programs I had the privilege of building and supporting, experiences that will stay with me always. Most recently, my time at Senator Riley School and now at École Okotoks Junior High School have been especially meaningful, as the collaboration, trust, and shared dedication within those teams left a lasting impact on me, both professionally and personally.
On a personal note, I am profoundly grateful for the many FSD teachers whose care, guidance, and dedication helped shape my children into the people they are today, and I will always appreciate the influence, patience and opportunities that were given to each of them.
As I move into this next chapter, I do so with a full heart and deep gratitude. Thank you for the laughter and the learning. I will cherish these memories always.”
Superintendent Chris Fuzessy provides, “On behalf of Foothills School Division and the communities we serve, sincere congratulations, and deep gratitude for your unwavering commitment to supporting students, families and colleagues across our school division. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and look forward to celebrating your retirement alongside our learning community later this year. Thank you for your leadership and positive impact.”
Please join us in acknowledging Ms. Paszkowski’s career and wishing her well for her upcoming retirement in June. We look forward to celebrating Dorothy and our other retirees at this year’s Milestones event in June.
