Doing What’s Best for Kids

ATA Strike Commencing on Monday; School Closures Starting Oct 6th

As a result of the Alberta Teachers Association (ATA) rejecting a proposed deal from the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA), all FMPSD schools will be closed to students starting Monday, October 6, 2025, unless a new agreement is reached or strike action is otherwise averted. Additionally, all yellow school bus routes will be suspended for the duration of the strike.

In light of the ongoing strike, all extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and after-school programs, will be temporarily suspended.

As there is no definitive end date for the strike, FMPSD is unable to provide a timeline for when normal operations will resume. We will continue to provide timely updates as we receive them from the Ministry of Education and Child Care.

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FMPSD Names Scott Barr as New Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources & Administration

Posted on: General News

(Fort McMurray, AB - May 7th, 2025) Fort McMurray Public School Division (FMPSD) is thrilled to announce Scott Barr as the new Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources & Administration, effective August 1, 2025.

With a remarkable career spanning 29 years with FMPSD, Scott Barr has shown exceptional commitment to enhancing the growth and success of our schools, staff, and students. Mr. Barr’s career began as a teacher, teaching predominantly Junior High and High School students at École Dickinsfield and Westwood High School. He later transitioned into leadership roles, serving as Vice Principal at Thickwood Heights School, École Dickinsfield, and Westwood High School.

Mr. Barr’s leadership further extended as he served as the first Principal of École McTavish, a role he held for over a decade. Afterwards, he joined Division Office, taking on the responsibilities of Acting Director of Education and serving as the Director of Human Resources & Administration for the last three years.

Scott Barr holds a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) from the University of Prince Edward Island and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) from the University of Alberta.

“I am excited to take on the Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Administration role for FMPSD,” said Mr. Barr. “I have had the honour of working in the HR Department with Merrie-Rae Mitsopoulos over the last three years, and her mentorship has given me a great foundation to build upon in this new role. Having spent over 29 years working with staff and students across FMPSD, I feel my experience as a teacher and administrator for ECDP through Grade 12 schools has prepared me to support the Division effectively.”

He added, “I have had the privilege of working with so many amazing people and students throughout my career. These relationships have been key to my continued learning and growth. I look forward to collaborating with schools and the wider community as we grow as a Division while always prioritizing ‘Doing What’s Best for Kids.’”

Please join us in congratulating Scott Barr as he steps into the Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources & Administration role. Together, we look forward to continuing FMPSD’s tradition of excellence and innovation, driven by our core commitment to students and their success.

For additional information, contact:

Momin Syed                                                           
Communications Coordinator
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-788-8009
communications@fmpsd.ab.ca