Dear Banting and Best School community,
It is my great honor to be joining your team as Principal of Banting and Best School. I look forward to meeting each of you and getting to know the amazing school community of staff, students and families. I also look forward to working with Ms. Manser as I transition to the school.
Dedicated to the field of education for the past 21 years, I have held the roles of teacher, learning leader and assistant principal with the Calgary Board of Education. I have had the privilege of working in a variety of settings including AISI (Alberta Initiative for School Improvement), alternative programs and community schools. I am currently at Lake Bonavista School, which features a Montessori Alternative program. My background has helped me deepen my understanding of early learning, with a focus on literacy, numeracy, practical life skills and Peace Education. I believe in teaching and supporting the whole child and that together we can reach higher levels of achievement for each and every student.
My core values center around community, innovation and continuous improvement. Relationships are at the core of the work we do. I believe respecting, caring and challenging each other, leads to meaningful connections. I have completed my Masters of Educational Technology and seek out creative and research-based strategies to solve problems and enhance learning opportunities. As your principal, I commit to leading an environment that is safe, welcoming and fosters high levels of personalized success.
On a personal note, I grew up on a farm in northern Alberta, moving to Calgary to pursue my teaching career. Family is at the heart of all I do. I have 3 siblings and am a loving auntie to 5 children! My son Ben (Grade 8) is my pride and joy and we love adventure, exploring, and the odd basketball showdown. I have travelled to many fascinating locations around the world but also enjoy relaxing with a good book or spending time in my garden.
I am thrilled for the opportunity to learn more about the amazing people, successes, achievements and events that have been taking place at Banting and Best School. I look forward to supporting our school in continuing to be a place of pride, belonging and collaboration.
Warm regards,
Kim Durnford kadurnford@cbe.ab.ca​