Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Sherri MacDonald

See the light in others and treat them as if that is all you see. -
Wayne Dyer
Sherri MacDonald

Summary

With over three decades of experience in the educational sector, I am a dedicated leader with a proven track record in roles such as Principal, Vice-Principal, Literacy Coach, and Teacher. My expertise lies in enhancing student experiences, fostering collaborative teaching environments, and achieving measurable outcomes. Passionate about driving educational excellence, I am eager to bring my commitment to Maple Bear Quality Assurance. Skilled in curriculum development, staff training, and resource management, I am known for adaptability and reliability in ensuring smooth operations and effective communication. As a strong leader, I excel at integrating innovative strategies to enhance student success and institutional growth.

Overview

33
years of professional experience

Work History

Maple Bear Schools

Trainer
03.2025 - 04.2025

Job overview

  • Delivered professional development on various curriculum topics to teachers.
  • Observed lessons and provided targeted feedback to multiple teachers across three schools in Northern Brazil.
  • Supported the alignment of teaching practices with the Maple Bear philosophy.
  • Built strong relationships with educators and school leaders.
  • Coached teachers on best practices, providing constructive feedback to support their professional growth.

Alderney Elementary

Principal
09.2023 - 07.2024

Job overview

  • Set and monitored clear school-wide goals aligned with SSP and provincial education priorities.
  • Led staff in implementing Nova Scotia curriculum and policies with fidelity.
  • Fostered a collaborative, inclusive culture grounded in culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices.
  • Used data and feedback to guide decision-making and measure progress toward instructional and behavioral goals.
  • Re-established a calm, welcoming school climate that supported student success and well-being.

Halifax Regional Centre for Education

Literacy Coach
09.2022 - 06.2023

Job overview

  • Partnered with teachers to co-plan instruction based on specific objectives for student learning.
  • Analyzed student progress using evidence-based methods to make informed instructional decisions.
  • Collaborated on differentiated and needs-based instruction strategies.
  • Facilitated professional development sessions focusing on literacy strategies and data-driven instruction.

Admiral Westphal Elementary

Principal
09.2019 - 08.2022

Job overview

  • Led a successful school-wide literacy program, significantly enhancing reading proficiency.
  • Organized professional development on differentiated instruction and restorative practices.
  • Implemented restorative practices to reduce behavioral issues and promote a positive school environment.
  • Promoted student voice and participation through 'Student Voice and Talk/Share' initiatives.

Inglis Street Elementary

Principal
09.2015 - 08.2019

Job overview

  • Coordinated professional development on restorative practices.
  • Set clear learning goals and promoted culturally responsive pedagogy.
  • Implemented the Caring School Curriculum.
  • Oversaw development and execution of IPPs for students with special needs.
  • Introduced 'Artisan Teacher' program to improve instruction.

Ecole Shannon Park School

Vice-Principal
09.2011 - 08.2015

Job overview

  • Focused on staff development and student engagement.
  • Organized extracurricular activities and clubs.
  • Conducted training for teachers on instructional strategies and classroom management.

Michael Wallace Elementary

Vice-Principal/Resource Teacher
09.2008 - 08.2011

Job overview

  • Focused on special education support and interventions.
  • Developed and implemented strategies for diverse learning needs.
  • Coordinated PD on inclusive practices.

Ian Forsyth Elementary

Reading Recovery/Resource Teacher
09.2003 - 06.2008

Job overview

  • Supported Grade 1-2 students with interventions and IPPs.
  • Co-chaired the Program Planning Team.
  • Led PD on literacy and assessment techniques.

Various Schools, Halifax Regional Center for Education

Classroom Teacher
09.1992 - 07.2003

Job overview

  • Versatile teaching portfolio including Core French and upper elementary.

Education

NS Instructional Leadership Academy

Diploma from Instructional Leadership
01.2018

Mount Saint Vincent University

Master of Education (MEd) from Literacy
01.2000

Acadia University

Bachelor of Education (BEd) from Elementary/Special Education
01.1991

Université Laval

Certificate from French for Non-Francophones
01.1985

St. Francis Xavier University

Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Psychology
01.1984

Skills

  • Leadership and Team Management
  • Curriculum Development Support
  • Professional Development Leader and Presenter
  • Data Analysis and Evidence-Based Decision Making
  • Differentiated Instruction Strategies
  • Program Planning and Implementation
  • Restorative Practices

Work Type

Contract WorkPart Time

Timeline

Trainer

Maple Bear Schools
03.2025 - 04.2025

Principal

Alderney Elementary
09.2023 - 07.2024

Literacy Coach

Halifax Regional Centre for Education
09.2022 - 06.2023

Principal

Admiral Westphal Elementary
09.2019 - 08.2022

Principal

Inglis Street Elementary
09.2015 - 08.2019

Vice-Principal

Ecole Shannon Park School
09.2011 - 08.2015

Vice-Principal/Resource Teacher

Michael Wallace Elementary
09.2008 - 08.2011

Reading Recovery/Resource Teacher

Ian Forsyth Elementary
09.2003 - 06.2008

Classroom Teacher

Various Schools, Halifax Regional Center for Education
09.1992 - 07.2003

Mount Saint Vincent University

Master of Education (MEd) from Literacy

Acadia University

Bachelor of Education (BEd) from Elementary/Special Education

Université Laval

Certificate from French for Non-Francophones

St. Francis Xavier University

Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Psychology

NS Instructional Leadership Academy

Diploma from Instructional Leadership
Sherri MacDonald