Wānaka principal steps down after decade in job

by Kim Bowden - Aug 21, 2024

The principal of Holy Family Catholic School in Wānaka has resigned after 10 years in the job.

Jo McKay will leave the school at the end of the term.

Deputy principal Angela Scoullar will move into an acting principal role for term four.

In a letter to the school community today, school board chair Rebecca McElrea says the news of the departure of a "beloved" principal is delivered with "a heavy heart".

Ms McElrea says Ms McKay has been headhunted for a national position in the education sector.

She describes her tenure at the school as "transformative".

"Under her leadership, Holy Family became one of the first schools in New Zealand to implement structured literacy - a journey we began six years ago, long before the government's recent rollout.

"This initiative has placed us at the forefront of educational innovation, and we have Jo to thank for steering us ahead of the curve.

"Jo’s impact extends beyond academic achievements. She has consistently fostered the best possible educational environment for our children, always keeping their best interests at the forefront of every decision.

"Under her leadership, we have seen excellent results across the board, a true reflection of her commitment to our students' success.

"Each year, her team has continuously expressed overwhelming support and admiration for her leadership, a testament to her ability to inspire and lead by example."

Ms McKay is the vice-president of the Otago Southland Catholic Primary Principals’ Association and an executive member of the New Zealand Catholic Principals' Association.

A farewell event for Ms McKay is scheduled for Friday, September 20, ahead of her final day at the school on Friday, September 27.

Main images (Holy Family Catholic School/Facebook): Principal of Holy Family Catholic School Jo McKay will leave the school at the end of the term.