Honorary Members – Gail Anderson and Brian Shortall

From time to time, contributions and achievements go above and beyond. We would like to congratulate Gail Anderson and Brian Shortall in recognition of their long and distinguished career, contributions and leadership at the Canadian School Boards Association and their unwavering commitment to quality education for all of Canada’s students.
 
Both have been granted Honorary Membership of the Canadian School Boards Association.
 

Short Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KivJMhIOop4&feature=youtu.be

Bio: Gail has been Executive Director of OPSBA for 17 years. She served as Associate Executive Director and Executive Director of the Association of Large School Boards of Ontario.  She played a pivotal role in establishing organizational culture and values, leading the human resources, operations and legal dimensions that contribute to OPSBA’s success. Gail has a BA and a certificate in Personnel and Industrial Relations, a MA in Educational Administration and completed the course requirements as a doctoral candidate from the University of Toronto. She was a founding member of the Cdn. Association for Practical Study of Legal Issues in Education (CAPSLE), member of the Ontario Association of School Business Officials, President of Ontario Education Services Council and helped create the Canadian Centre for Quality Education and Opportunity. Gail took a lead role in the restructuring of the Canadian School Boards Association, helping to revitalize its role as the voice of public education in Canada and creating a collaborative approach in delivering on key priorities and presenting a dynamic communication strategy.

Short Film: https://youtu.be/vwbbok-v3DQ

Bio: Brian was appointed Executive Director / CEO of the Newfoundland and Labrador School Boards Association in September 2004.  Since 1969, he has served as a junior and senior high school teacher, high school principal, School District Superintendent  and Director of Education for the Avalon East School Board.  He was President of the Newfoundland Teachers’ Association, President of the Canadian Teachers’ Federation and chaired the Canadian Teachers International Development Assistance Program for two years.  He has also been a Director of the Canadian Education Association and was an active participant in the Canadian Association of School Administrators. Some of the awards that have recognized Brian’s accomplishments and contributions to education include; the Newfoundland & Labrador School Boards Association Education Award, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, the Canadian Teachers’ Federation Special Recognition Award for Meritorious Service, and most recently, Life Honorary Membership in the Newfoundland  and Labrador Teachers Association. Brian has an extensive background in school district leadership, educational change and organizational development.  He is also a member with Education Research & Development Corp. (ERDI), an educational organization enabling forums between Corporate Partner companies delivering programs, services and products to the learners and staff in the schools of Canada.  Brian is a graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland and Ottawa University. He has been married to Claudia (who he insists is definitely his “Better Half”)  for 46 years, and they are the proud parents of 3 and grandparents of 7 grandchildren.