Left to Right: Mrs. Ashley Tower and Mrs. Patti Nichol
Peace Wapiti Public School Division (PWPSD) is excited to announce that Mrs. Ashley Tower will continue as Acting Principal of Clairmont Community School (CCS), and Mrs. Patti Nichol has accepted the role as Principal of the Colony Schools.
Mrs. Tower joined PWPSD as temporary Indigenous Education Services Team Lead in September 2024, and began as Acting Principal of CCS earlier this spring. She says she has enjoyed her time with PWPSD and is looking forward to spending next year at CCS.
Mrs. Tower holds a Bachelor of General Studies in Education and a Master of Educational Leadership. She is excited to continue working with the students, staff, and families of CCS and grow as an educator and leader within PWPSD.
Mrs. Nichol taught at Hythe Regional School for 32 years before retiring in 2022. She has since enjoyed substitute teaching, and this past fall, accepted a 30-day contract to help at the new Harry Balfour School. “What began as a short-term role quickly turned into something much more lasting – and now, it seems they just can’t get rid of me,” she says. Mrs. Nichol adds she is genuinely looking forward to her new role as principal, as she knows it will challenge her to grow. “It’s an opportunity to learn new skills and gain a deeper understanding of a culture I don’t yet know a great deal about.” While she recognizes she has much to learn, she brings many years of classroom and leadership experience that she hopes will contribute meaningfully to the students and teachers in each Colony community.
Mrs. Nichol says building connections and meeting people where they’re at has always been central to her approach. “It keeps me grounded and reminds me why I chose this profession in the first place. I’m thankful for this opportunity and committed to doing my very best to support and encourage students and staff each and every day.” Mrs. Tower and Mrs. Nichol will enjoy their summer break before assuming their principal positions this fall.