Photo Courtesy: Ms. Desjardins
Throughout her 24 years of teaching in a wide variety of subjects, Ms. Desjardins has achieved several streams in her long professional journey, leading her to where she is today! Say hello to Ms. Danielle Desjardins-Koloff, the new principal of St. Joseph's Catholic High School!
Ms. Desjardins began her teaching career in 1997. Later, her journey continued as a department head of English and an instructional coach. After serving as vice principal at Holy Names and Villanova, she became a principal of equity and safe schools at the board office. She additionally taught at the University of Windsor, became principal at Catholic Central, and is now part of the Laser family!
Our newest principal has always been passionate about making an impact and being involved. In fact, it is her greatest joy to help students discover their true potential and become their own leaders. "I think adolescent years are among the most challenging and vital times in our lives… It's where youth are faced with a growing amount of pressure. What am I going to be? How do I identify? Where do I fit in this world?... part of my job for the students is letting them realize that they don't have to know everything now, because it's not the end, it's only the beginning."
Ms. Desjardins is proudly Metis by heritage. "Don't let my blue eyes and blonde hair fool ya," she says. As equity promotion is essential for her, she is eager to discover the stories and needs of historically underrepresented students in leadership roles. She is willing to find a way to support their needs and help them excel in school. "I loved the multicultural and multiethnic aspects of Catholic Central. I am very excited to see the unique diversity of this building! I'm interested in learning more about the programming that supports diversity… I want to further that work!"
Having grandparents with French heritage, Madame Desjardins is additionally excited to hear more from the immersion students. Although her oral fluency is not at its best yet, like our Prime Minister: Angelina Hermes claimed, the French Immersion program seems underrepresented. "I have to learn what we can do to support the teachers and students in that program," Madame says.
Commonly known as a passionate, nurturing, and equitable individual, Ms. Desjardins loves challenges! She has a vibrant personality and enjoys connecting with others through laughter. Despite her busy schedule as a mother and a leader, she finds joy in reading and learning as she pursues her Ph.D. She also values being outdoors and engaging in sports, especially running. You'll also be surprised to learn that Ms. Desjardins finds peace when riding her impressive motorcycle! You will definitely see it around campus someday!
When asked what her favourite aspect of being a principal was, Ms. Desjardins expressed her love for learning staff and students' interests, needs, hopes and dreams, then finding the means to advocate for them. "It's my responsibility to provide [exploring] opportunities to all youth… as we've lost a whole year of exploration." Helping and watching individuals succeed in joy means a lot to Ms. Desjardins. "I get to listen and be that voice to people who can change things, so I put my feet on the ground every morning and remind myself of that awesome privilege!" she explains.
As the school's principal, Ms. Danielle Desjardins is eager to implement new concepts, keep the school vibrant, and take it to the next level! She is thrilled to be part of the Laser family as a mentor and inspiration! The diverse interests, strengths, affinities, and people of St. Joe's are ready to say hello!