Lisa Iversen appointed principal of Wandering River School in 2020-21

Lisa Iversen: Image credit: NLPS

Northern Lights Public Schools has promoted a long-standing teacher to the position of principal.

Lisa Iversen has been appointed principal of Wandering River School for the 2020-2021 school year, a place she has taught for over 20 years.

She will replace current principal Dan Coonan who is retiring after 31 years at NLPS.

“Teaching at Wandering River School is not just a job, it is my passion,” said Iversen in a press release.

“This little school holds my heart and soul. I am excited and eager to expand my role and I can’t wait to get back in the building with our wonderful staff and students.”

Iversen has been the school’s Kindergarten to Grade 3 teacher since 1997, located in the hamlet of Wandering River, northwest of Lac Lac Biche.

She has experience teaching all subjects to students in those grades in the same classroom, while also acting as principal designate and the school’s student services team coordinator.

In 2006, Iversen received a Xerox Legacy Award for Distinguished Services in Providing Instructional Services.

NLPS superintendent Rick Cusson said her experience at Wandering River will help her in this unique role at the small school.

“We are looking forward to having her work with the school’s families and community partners to expand on the opportunities available to students,” said Cusson in a press release.

“Mr. Coonan has done a fantastic job of truly making the school part of the community of Wandering River,” said Cusson. “We wish him all the best in his retirement.”

Amongst Cusson’s accomplishments during his 31 years of service to the division, was his quick response and accommodation of students who had evacuated from Fort McMurray in 2016, which tripled the size of the school.