Bill Cober has been appointed director of education at the York Region District School Board, effective Aug. 1.
Cober brings nearly 30 years of experience in public education in York Region, and has extensive experience in educational leadership and municipal government, according to a YRDSB news release.
He has strengths in relationship building, strategic decision-making and building equitable and inclusive organizations.
He has a collaborative and strategic approach to leadership and a passionate belief in the capacity and potential of all students, the board stated.
“We look forward to welcoming Bill Cober to the role of director of YRDSB,” said Ron Lynn, chair. “His background includes rich and diverse educational, instructional, organizational, operational, governance and relational leadership skills and experiences.
“As a graduate of the York Region District School Board, I am proud to call York Region home. I understand the uniqueness and diversity of York Region and that our schools are both a reflection of, and the heartbeat within our communities,” said incoming director Cober.
“The board has exemplary leadership at all levels of the organization and the opportunity to serve YRDSB students, staff and families as its next director of education is one that I will truly cherish.”
Over the coming months, YRDSB will embark on a comprehensive strategic plan review. This work will set the vision and direction for our board for the years to come.
Cober has extensive experience and skills that will facilitate a robust public engagement and consultation process. The board looks forward to working with Cober and the community to establish this process in the coming months.
Scott Yake has served as director of education (interim) since November 2022, and will remain in the role until July 31.
“We are grateful for the dedicated and thoughtful leadership Scott has provided during this interim period. We have benefited from his expertise, commitment to relationship building and inclusivity and his focus on student achievement and well-being,” said Lynn.
York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with more than 126,000 students in 180 elementary schools and 33 secondary schools.
For more information, visit the board website.
