After a 33-year career in education, the Director of Education with the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) is retiring.
John Howitt has announced his plans to retire on April 30, 2025.
“I am incredibly grateful to have spent my career surrounded by individuals dedicated to the safety, happiness, health, well-being, and success of children,” said Howitt in a news release. “Throughout my career, supporting students has been at the heart of my work. As my career took me away from teaching in a classroom, I was able to continue this important work through mentoring many extraordinary individuals."
Howitt started his career in Windsor as a Core French teacher before becoming a vice principal in 1998. He was promoted to the role of principal in 2008, and became Superintendent of Education in 2009.
Howitt was appointed LKDSB Director in July 2019, following a 27-year tenure with the Greater Essex County District School Board.
Board Chair Randy Campbell said Howitt's retirement is truly well deserved.
"John has led with great compassion and leaves behind a significant legacy," said Campbell in a news release. "Our Board and the staff and students we serve have greatly benefited from his exceptional leadership and he will be greatly missed.”
Howitt said he is looking forward to spending more quality time with his wife and kids during his retirement.
“I have been fortunate to have worked within two school boards and been exposed to many others across the province and Canada,” said Howitt. “I can say, unequivocally, that the work taking place in the Lambton Kent District School Board on behalf of its students is exceptional and our staff consistently go above and beyond to support their students. I want to thank the LKDSB team for welcoming me into the family 6 years ago and for their steadfast commitment to fostering success for every student every day.”
The Director of Education for the St. Clair Catholic District School Board Scott Johnson also recently announced his planned retirement this coming spring.