Meet Conference Scholar
Andre Potvin
Biography
Andre Potvin is the principal of Notre Dame High School in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
^ Return to top
In His Own Words: A Leadership Reflection
What obstacles do you face as a leader?
I am currently a high school principal in an inner-city school in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. We serve grades 7 through 12 and have approximately 1,000 students. I am now completing my fourth year at the school. This placement for me has truly been eye-opening as I was in a rural high school prior to Notre Dame H.S.
The biggest challenge facing our students as they walk through the door is the staggering level of poverty. Students need to feel good about their school and themselves—our goal is to ensure that every student is able to access every opportunity we offer to all students. Ensuring that each student has what they need, such as food, shelter, health support, and school supplies, will support student success for all.
Another key challenge is the expectations for students from our staff. Regardless of a student's background, staff must believe that anything is possible for each student. Our goal is to do whatever it takes to ensure success for each student, including maintaining high expectations and working together to further develop classroom instructional practices.
^ Return to top
What leadership article or book has inspired you?
^ Return to top
Scholars Quick Links
^ Return to top