Northern Lights Public Schools Superintendent Rick Cusson was honoured this week during a retirement celebration recognizing more than three decades of leadership in education, including over 10 years leading the division as Superintendent.

The event brought together trustees, staff, family members, colleagues, and community leaders to reflect on Cusson’s impact on students, schools, and communities across the region.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr attended the celebration and spoke about the steady leadership Cusson brought to the role during years of growth and change within the division.

“He always brought steady leadership, a deep commitment to students, and a genuine care for the communities he served,” said Cyr.

Cusson stepped into the Superintendent position in early 2015, around the same time Cyr was first elected as MLA.

Throughout the afternoon, speakers reflected not only on Cusson’s professionalism, but also his personality and sense of humour.

“He was a strong and steady presence in the division, always grounded in his work, but never without a well-timed, slightly mischievous sense of humour that kept things real,” Cyr said. “That combination of professionalism and personality is not something that will be easily replaced.”

Family members also shared stories about how Cusson’s career shaped their lives and experiences, highlighting the personal side of educational leadership beyond the workplace.

The event featured several lighthearted moments, including a creative candy bar-themed speech from Board Chair Karen Packard and former Chair Mandi Skogen, as well as a musical tribute from Cusson’s executive assistants.

Members of the leadership team also presented different “versions” of Rick they had worked alongside over the years, showcasing the many sides of his personality depending on the situation.

Cyr joked that his personal favourite was “Rick the astronaut.”

“Not one of the official ones, but it probably should have been, because he was always willing to explore new ideas and push beyond the usual boundaries,” he said.

One memorable moment from the celebration included a lamb being brought into the festivities, something Cyr joked may not have fully captured Cusson’s personality.

“If anything, something with a bit more personality might have fit better — maybe even Gainer the Gopher from the Saskatchewan Roughriders,” he said.

Cyr also recognized the Northern Lights Public Schools Board of Trustees, including Chair Karen Packard, Vice-Chair Mandi Skogen, and Trustees Cheryl Edwards, Garry Kissel, Roy Ripkens, Ron Young, Lois Phillips, Jim White, and Sandy Makokis.

“Their work alongside the Superintendent plays a vital role in supporting students, staff, and families across Northern Lights Public Schools,” said Cyr.

Cusson’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter for Northern Lights Public Schools, with many speakers throughout the afternoon emphasizing the lasting impact his leadership has had across the region.

“Education is one of the cornerstones of strong rural communities,” said Cyr. “Rick played an important role in helping guide Northern Lights Public Schools through years of change, growth, and challenge.”

“Wishing Rick all the best in retirement and in the next chapter ahead.”