**DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ONTARIO NORTH EAST MEDIA RELEASE**

District School Board Ontario North East is proud to announce the appointment of James Rowe as its new Superintendent of Human Resources.

A resident of Haileybury and a former graduate of Cobalt-Haileybury High School, Rowe has been in the education field for 29 years, serving for 13 years as an Administrator of Timiskaming District Secondary School, 11 years as a teacher at the secondary level as well as in Adult Education. He was named Senior Manager of Human Resources for the Board in October of 2013.

Rowe holds a 4 year honours degree in Bio-Chemistry from Laurentian University, Bachelor of Education from University of Toronto, Masters of Education from Nipissing University, Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate from Durham College, Canadian Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation (2015) and Payroll Compliance Practitioner designation (to be completed in February, 2019).

The community-minded Rowe also spent 12 years as municipal councillor for the town of Haileybury, and is actively involved in local hockey.

“I look forward to continued work with the Board and serving our students and staff. I am pleased to be part of a team that works daily to implement our vision and mission,” commented Rowe.

“Jim has a proven track record of excellence and service at our Board,” commented Director of Education, Lesleigh Dye. “His strong leadership skills, aptitude for building positive and collaborative relationships, and his extensive experience will serve the Board well as he continues his role with his new title.”

“As chair, I wish to emphasize that we did not have a vacancy at the managerial level within the H.R. Department,” added Board Chair, Bob Brush. “The approved change in title from “Senior Manager of Human Resources” to “Superintendent of Human Resources” was made to reflect the total scope of responsibilities that fall upon the shoulders of Mr. Rowe.”