NGPS is pleased to welcome Ms. Sarah Carlson to the Central Services team as Learning Services Coordinator - Learning Supports, effective August 2025. In her new role, Ms. Carlson will support NGPS students, families, and educators in the area of Inclusive Education.

"Sarah is a passionate educator, with over 20 years of experience with Northern Gateway Public Schools. Her graduate studies, and her working knowledge within the Inclusive Education framework, both as a Facilitator and a PUF Coordinator, make her an excellent fit for this position. We look forward to welcoming Sarah to the team officially in August."

- NGPS Superintendent Kevin Bird

Ms. Carlson brings a wealth of practical knowledge and vision to the Coordinator role honed over 20 years in the classroom and at the Inclusive Education table. She has been a teacher at both Whitecourt Central School and Pat Hardy Elementary School since 1999, where she has also served as Inclusive Education Facilitator since 2019. In addition to these roles, Sarah serves as an Inclusive Education Coordinator and PUF Coordinator for our other Whitecourt schools.

From facilitating Early Childhood support services, collaborative team meetings and comprehensive student plans to guide programming, to representing NGPS in provincial learning communities, supporting our Educational Assistants in their work, and building positive relationships with partners, Ms. Carlson demonstrates a thorough understanding of the diverse needs of our learners and a commitment to making meaningful impact on student inclusion, engagement, growth, and success.

Ms. Carlson shares, "I am both grateful and excited for the opportunity to take on this leadership role supporting inclusive education within Northern Gateway Public Schools. Supporting and empowering all learners, regardless of their background or abilities, is one of my core values as an educator. I look forward to working alongside the educators and families of NGPS to continue creating inclusive educational experiences for our students."

Ms. Carlson holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta, and a Master of Education degree with a focus in School Leadership and Inclusive Education from the University of Calgary. 

Congratulations Sarah!