It is with a sense of gratitude that the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board announces the retirement of the Director of Education, David DeSantis.
“For the last seven years, Director DeSantis has led our system, demonstrating unwavering dedication to Catholic education, leadership, and a deep commitment to our faith,” said Brian Evoy, Chair of the Board. “His visionary leadership has not only enhanced the educational experiences of our students, but has inspired and supported all of our staff.”
“As I prepare to conclude my service as Director of Education, my heart is filled with gratitude for all we have accomplished together and the privilege of serving alongside such dedicated staff,” said David DeSantis, Director of Education.
“I leave confident that this Board will continue to flourish in faith, wisdom, and compassion, always grounded in Christ as we build faith-filled learning communities where each member is loved, inspired, and successful.”
As a senior leader and educator, David has devoted more than 32 years to Catholic education. He holds a Master of Education from Brock University and undergraduate degrees in Education and Commerce from St. Bonaventure University and McMaster University. He is also a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) Designate.
David began his career with the Halton and Waterloo Catholic District School Boards, serving as a Department Head of Business, Secondary Vice-Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent of Education: Student Success, and Superintendent of Learning. His leadership portfolios have spanned Student Success, Leadership, 21st Century Teaching and Learning, and Safe Schools.
In 2017, David was seconded to the Ontario Ministry of Education as a Team Lead for the Student Achievement Supports Branch within the Student Achievement Division. His work there focused on strategic planning and reporting for Early Years Learning, Student Success, School Effectiveness, and the Renewed Math Strategy.
In January 2019, David was appointed Director of Education for the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board. He guided the creation and implementation of the Board’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan, which over five years was monitored, evaluated, and reported to Trustees and community. This plan delivered meaningful outcomes that positively impacted staff, students, and families. With its successful conclusion, the senior team is preparing to launch a new five-year Multi-Year Strategic Plan in the fall of 2025 to continue this progress.
David has served as Chair of the English Catholic Council of Ontario Directors of Education (ECCODE) for the past four years and as Chair of the Council of Ontario Directors of Education (CODE), representing Catholic education at the highest levels of provincial decision-making.
He continues to support leadership formation in Catholic education through his work with the Ontario Catholic Supervisory Officers’ Association (OCSOA). He adjudicates practicums for prospective Supervisory Officers in the Supervisory Officers’ Qualification Program (SOQP) through the Catholic Community Delivery Organization (CCDO), and he has facilitated Module I: The Personal Perspective. This fall, he will facilitate Module II: Leading System Change.
David has recently completed the second year of his Doctor of Education (Ed.D) degree at Western University, with plans to begin his dissertation this fall. Beyond his professional commitments, he is a loving husband, father of five children, and caretaker of a German Short-Haired Pointer. He is passionate about hockey, reading, fitness, and is dedicated to lifelong learning.
David will retire on January 30th, 2026.
Please join the ALCDSB in celebrating Director DeSantis’ remarkable career in Catholic Education and in wishing him a joyful and fulfilling retirement.