LAKELAND - Former Superintendent Joe Arruda will be temporarily stepping out of retirement to return as interim Superintendent of Schools for Lakeland Catholic School Division.
Prior to his retirement in 2021, Arruda served the division as Superintendent for eight years, after a life-long career in education as a high school teacher, principal, and senior administrator.
During his years serving Lakeland Catholic, Arruda was key in the establishment of a Catholic school in Lac La Biche and introducing high school programming at Holy Family Catholic School in Waskatenau.
Under his leadership, schools such as St. Dominic Elementary, École Notre Dame Elementary, Holy Cross Elementary, and Dr. Bernard Brosseau all received facility improvements, creating modern, safe, and comfortable learning environments. Arruda was also instrumental in creating the teacher housing in Cold Lake, as well as the modernization of École Notre Dame High School and Bonnyville Central Office.
“I am looking forward to working with the board trustees, staff, students, and families of Lakeland Catholic so we can continue to offer an educational experience that will inspire our students to grow deeper in their faith, while developing their spiritual, social, academic, and emotional wellbeing,” Arruda said.
LCSD Board Chair Mary Anne Penner said Arruda’s experience with the division prior to his retirement will allow for an easy transition into the 2023-24 school year while the division searches for a new superintendent.
“We are sure he will serve the division well over the next few months. Welcome back, Joe, we look forward to working with you.”