SOQP Program Testimonials

See what former students have to say about our Supervisory Officer's Qualification Program.

"I'm so grateful to my LU teachers and mentors for supporting me through this process. I can't say enough for the incredible learning in each of my SOQP modules and practicum. It was amazing to meet fellow educators from around the world during my courses. During our zoom sessions we learned from some of our classmates that it was 2 am in their world of learning! The caliber of teachers LU was able to secure far exceeded my expectations and they were all so accommodating with my needing to work for my current position serving in Northern Ontario. I feel much more confident in my job and though I know I still have a lot to do, LU's SOQP set my foundation firm!"

Jenny Rose Pert-Wesley  

Education Director

Kitchenuhmaykoosib Education Authority

"I feel very fortunate to have taken the SOQP Program at Lakehead University. Beyond giving me the flexibility I needed at an incredibly busy time, my instructors and fellow SOQP candidates were from across Ontario, providing rich insights, experiences and a variety of perspectives. Professionally, the program opened many doors for me, initially as a Private School Inspector for the Ministry of Education to my current role with Superior North Catholic District School Board. As an educator who has spent a significant portion of my career in program creation and implementation, I appreciated the professionalism, care and real world applicability of the SOQP program at Lakehead."

Paul Tsekouras

Superintendent of Education

Superior North Catholic District School Board

"The Lakehead University SOQP Program was perfect for me and I recommend it to all my colleagues.  It can be completed entirely online, providing maximum flexibility and reduced costs because there is no travel required. Even the first module, which has a face-to-face component, can be conducted synchronously, online! I was able to successfully complete all four modules in about 9 months. The instructors are experienced Superintendents and Directors of Education from across the province and provide participants with a diverse perspective on the role of the Supervisory Officer. The instructors set high expectations and provide timely constructive feedback for growth. One of the key features of the program is the ability to network with education leaders from school boards throughout Ontario. I have built lasting relationships with participants that have served me well as I moved into the role of Supervisory Officer."

Mary Mancini

Superintendent of Education – Student Success/Secondary Curriculum and Support

Lambton Kent District School Board

"I had the good fortune to take the Lakehead SOQP program from April to September 2020. The online format allowed me to find that elusive balance between home, school, and continued education. The topics raised and assignments given were pertinent to what it would seem the role of the superintendent has become in an ever changing world. The online discussions proved to be enlightening and I came out of the course with a greater sense of my own discernment process as well as an increased knowledge base on topics that I know will assist me throughout the rest of my career regardless of what position I am in. I would highly recommend the program both for the excellent quality of instruction as well as the content of the assignments. Life long learning should be our constant goal and the Lakehead SOQP program helped me to achieve this goal."

Roy Fernandes

Principal 

Toronto Catholic District School Board

"Rich learning and reflection in the SOQP at Lakehead University has helped me to become a better principal and prepared me to extend my vision from a school focus to a system focus. Instructors provided regular meaningful and thoughtful feedback. Networking with educators online from various regions connected us to an interesting provincial context for looking at leading student achievement as a Superintendent. The program gave me a solid foundation for next steps in my career and expanded my vision for what’s possible in education."

Jessica Outram

System Principal

Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

"Obtaining my Superintendent qualifications through Lakehead's SOQP was the perfect fit for me! The online delivery of the modules made it easy to complete while working full time as a school administrator. I appreciated the expertise, experience and guidance from  the very knowledgeable instructors. They did an excellent job preparing me for my future role as Superintendent! I would highly recommend this program to any busy school leader that is looking to further their qualifications."

LeeAnn Poisson

Principal of Safe Schools

Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board

"The Lakehead SOQP program was the perfect fit for my needs. The program offered the flexibility I needed to be able to complete it fully online and to take the modules in any sequence at various points in the year. The instructors were very experienced and provided a rich learning environment.  The assignments were practical and relevant to my own practice, even as a Principal in a private First Nation school.  I would highly recommend this program!"

Dr. Angela Batsford-Mermans

Principal

Keewaytinook Internet High School

"The SOQP Lakehead program provided me with an engaging and challenging learning experience. The instructors designed the online modules in such a way that I was able to feel connected with all candidates and built a professional network of educators near and far. The discussions and assignments truly pushed my thinking far beyond the school level to that of the board and province. As an administrator, I often find myself utilizing SOQP articles, videos, and assignments to support staff meetings and professional development sessions. Although flexible in terms of what time of day/night I could do my coursework, I also appreciated the high expectations for discussion contributions and work submission. I believe the course gave me great insight and practical knowledge of the role of Superintendent. Highly recommend taking SOQP through Lakehead!"

Tanya Fraser

Principal

Trillium Lakelands District School Board

"The Programming was rigorous and provided an excellent balance between independent study, group collaboration, and practical experience. Connecting with colleagues across Ontario provided a rare opportunity to understand the differences between districts and the unique set of challenges each of us faces in our leadership roles. Last, instructors truly cared about my success. Having been taught by Superintendents and current Directors of Education was the icing on the cake. The advice instructors shared will serve me well in my leadership pursuits and I am confident that I can reach out to any of my fellow SOQP peers or instructors and they will be there to support me. This was an excellent experience and some of the best PD I have encountered."

Dave Gervais

Principal

Grand Erie District School Board