September 1st, 2023

Hi Suddaby Families,

It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Suddaby P.S.  My name is Barb Tomkins and I am truly honoured to have the opportunity to serve our school community.  I am looking forward to getting to know each of you and your children in the coming weeks and months.

To start, I would like to share a little bit about my background as an educator.  I began my teaching career over 30 years ago as a kindergarten teacher and have gained experience teaching a variety of grades and roles throughout my career such as a Specialized Reading Teacher, Special Education Consultant and then Administration.  All of these experiences have played a pivotal role in my beliefs as an educator and in fostering my genuine love for nurturing young minds.  

As I step into this role of Principal at Suddaby P.S., I want to take a moment to share with you my core belief, one that will guide my leadership and our collective journey at Suddaby P.S.  I firmly believe in the importance of creating an inclusive and equitable educational environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances.  

Inclusivity and equity are not just words; they are the foundation upon which we will build a supportive and nurturing learning community. Every student deserves to feel valued, respected and heard. It is our duty as educators and parents to ensure that every child’s unique strengths and needs are recognized and met, creating a diverse and harmonious environment where each individual can reach their fullest potential.

To achieve this vision of inclusivity and equity. I am committed to the following:

Open Communication:  I believe in open and transparent communication with parents, teachers, and students.  Your feedback and insights are invaluable in shaping our school’s policies and practices.

Professional Development:  I will work closely with our dedicated staff to provide ongoing professional development that fosters cultural competence, diversity awareness, and inclusive teaching practices.

Support for All:  We all implement strategies to support students with diverse learning needs, ensuring that no child is left behind. Our school will be a place where differences are celebrated, and individual qualities are encouraged.

Community Engagement:  Building a strong sense of community is essential. We will encourage involvement from all parents, guardians, caregivers, and other family members, valuing the rich diversity of our school community.  

Equitable Opportunities:  I am committed to providing equitable access to educational opportunities, resources, and extracurricular activities for students.

I am eager to work collaboratively with you, our dedicated staff, and the broader community to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Please know that my door is always open, and I welcome your thoughts, questions, and ideas. Together, we can make Suddaby a place where every child’s potential is realized.

I look forward to meeting you in person and embarking on this exciting educational journey together. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education.

Barb Tomkins, Principal