Premier Appoints Deputy Education Minister
Premier Darrell Dexter today, Aug. 23, appointed Carole Olsen the new deputy minister of Education.
Ms. Olsen will oversee the province's Kids and Learning First plan, focused on early learning, supporting teachers, making the best use of teaching time and preparing students for good jobs in Nova Scotia.
"The province could not have found anyone more qualified for this position," said Premier Dexter. "Ms. Olsen's knowledge of Nova Scotia's school system is unmatched. She has proven to be an innovative leader during times of fiscal restraint and, as former superintendent, she will bring an important perspective to the table."
Ms. Olsen has served as superintendent of schools and CEO of the Halifax Regional School Board for the past 10 years, overseeing roughly 50,000 students, 137 schools, and 8,000 employees.
Before her position with the Halifax Regional School Board, Ms. Olsen gained extensive experience as a teacher and senior administrator (superintendent) with the Toronto District School Board, and as an education officer with the Ontario Ministry of Education.
"I am passionate about the promise of public education and I want Nova Scotia to be recognized as a leader in Canada and around the world," said Ms. Olsen. "Alongside Minister Jennex, I look forward to working with staff, school boards and all other education partners, to build on the excellent work that our teachers and administrators are doing in Nova Scotia schools to improve learning outcomes for students."
Ms. Olsen is recognized as a national leader in educational innovation. She has served as the chair of the Canadian Education Association, chair of the National Advisory Council on Energy Efficiency, and as a member of the Education Research Development Corporation.
"We are very sorry to see Carole leave the Halifax Regional School Board, but we are pleased that she will now bring her vision and passion to a provincial level," said Irvine Carvery, chair of the Halifax Regional School Board. "Carole's experience as superintendent will go a long way in building strong relationships between the Department of Education and school boards in Nova Scotia."
Ms. Olsen's appointment comes after a national search for a new deputy minister of Education. She will begin work at the department Sept. 1.