January 30th, 2026

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Members of the Elmira District Secondary School Community,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Elmira District Secondary School. I am truly honored to join this vibrant school community and to work alongside our dedicated staff, engaged families, and, most importantly, our students.

I am entering my 19th year as a Principal, and throughout my career I have been deeply committed to supporting high-quality teaching and learning. My professional focus has centered on strong pedagogy, meaningful assessment practices, and the use of restorative approaches to build positive school cultures. I firmly believe that when students feel respected, supported, and connected, they are better positioned to learn, grow, and succeed.

On a personal note, I am also the proud father of five children — three daughters and two sons — ranging in age from 13 to 23. Being a parent has shaped my leadership in profound ways. I understand the trust families place in schools every day, and I approach my role with that responsibility always in mind. I strive to ensure that our school is a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where every student is known, valued, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

As Principal, I believe strongly in the power of relationships and collaboration. I am committed to working closely with staff, students, parents, and community partners to support student achievement and well-being. Open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility will be central to how we move forward together. I also value student voice and leadership, and I look forward to hearing directly from our students about their experiences, ideas, and aspirations.

Elmira District Secondary School has a proud tradition, and I am excited to build on the many strengths that already exist here — academically, socially, culturally, and through extracurricular opportunities. My goal is to support continuous improvement while honoring the unique identity of this school community.

I look forward to meeting many of you in the weeks and months ahead. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions, concerns, or ideas you would like to share. Together, we can ensure that Elmira District Secondary School remains a place where students thrive and feel a strong sense of belonging.

Thank you for the warm welcome, and I am excited for the year ahead.

Sincerely,
Tim Swartz
Principal, Elmira District Secondary School

Categories: News