Thames Valley District School Board announces new CEO

Kevin Auckland has been named the new CEO of the Thames Valley District School Board. He previously attended TVDSB schools as a student and began his teaching career with the board. Contributed photo

By Lee Griffi

One of Ontario’s largest school boards remains under provincial control but has hired a leader to improve both finances and education.

Interim director of education Bill Tucker will be retiring soon and the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) has replaced him with Kevin Auckland, effective July 1. He we will serve as the board’s new CEO.

“A highly respected education leader with experience in organizational leadership, fiscal management, operational planning and advancing student achievement, Auckland has served Thames Valley students, staff and communities in a variety of leadership roles, most recently as senior superintendent of program and learning services,” said a board press release.

Bill 101, the Putting Students First legislation, made some changes to the financial, business and governance side of the sector and, as a result, the role of a CEO was created. Auckland explained one of his top priorities is to rebuild public trust in the board, and getting back to the business of proving high-quality education for students.

Auckland’s connection to the TVDSB is both professional and personal. He attended elementary and secondary schools within the district before beginning his career in education with TVDSB.

“I believe wholeheartedly in public education, and I want to support that. It shaped who I am as an educator and that will be a key area for me when we look to achievement and how we can best support all students.”

He added his priority is ensuring strong financial and operational oversight.

One criticism of many school boards with a mix of city and country schools is the lack of services and programs in rural areas where many urban schools have access. Auckland explained he has experience in many geographical areas of the board area and said he is prepared to consult across the school-board area on what people’s concerns are.

“There is a uniqueness to every school and area. I do want to take the time to listen to staff, students, parents and the community to hear what they are proud of, what are the challenges or barriers and what their hopes are. What are their aspirations for each area?”

Auckland said he plans on going to Woodstock, St. Thomas and London schools but also rural areas.

“I want to make sure I have a good understanding because when I take all that information back, what I hear should shape the decisions we make because it’s coming from the voices of the people we serve. There is a uniqueness to each area and a uniqueness to each school.”

As of today, the province will be moving forward with trustees as part of October’s municipal elections, despite the fact those at the TVDSB currently have no decision-making capacity. Auckland expects the board will continue to be under provincial control for the foreseeable future.

“I’m pretty confident we will be under supervision for the next school year as we work through some of the areas we need to as a board.”

He added it is an honour to serve the board as its new CEO.

“This is a system with extraordinary students, dedicated staff, supportive families and strong community partners. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead alongside such passionate and caring people, and I look forward to listening, learning and working together to ensure every student feels supported, valued and inspired to succeed.”

Auckland has served the TVDSB in a range of leadership roles, including teacher, vice principal, principal, superintendent of student achievement and senior superintendent of program and learning services. He has been widely recognized for his commitment to equity, inclusive learning environments, Indigenous education and collaborative leadership.

“Kevin is an exceptional leader who brings integrity, compassion, strong organizational leadership and significant financial and operational experience to this role. Following a rigorous search process, I am confident Kevin is the right person to lead Thames Valley into its next chapter,” said TVDSB supervisor Paul Boniferro.

“I also want to recognize and sincerely thank interim director Bill Tucker for his extraordinary leadership and service to Thames Valley. Bill returned from retirement in September 2024 at a critical time for the organization and provided steady, thoughtful and deeply respected leadership. His commitment to students, staff and public education has left a lasting impact on this system, and Thames Valley is stronger because of his leadership.”