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Elementary School principal Phil Janicki retires

“..the school is running smoothly, and this is a good time to leave it in good hands.” -Phil Janicki, retiring BES principal
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Barriere Elementary School’s retiring principal Phil Janicki

On Oct. 31, Barriere Elementary School principal Phil Janicki closed the door on a teaching career that has spanned some 33 years and two months.

During that time he also served as a School District 73 Behaviour Consultant for  15 years in Clearwater.

“Almost all of my teaching career has been in this area,” said Janicki, noting aside from Clearwater, he has taught in Blue River, served as the principal in Vavenby, and most recently has served as the principal at Barriere Elementary since September of 2009.

“I wanted to stay in a small school,” said Janicki, who resides in Clearwater with his family, “I’m really glad I came to Barriere, I’ve very much enjoyed working here.”

Janicki says retirement from teaching just seems to be coming at the right time for him, as other opportunities are now presenting themselves.

“I could have retired in September, but I wanted to wait a little while.  I think the school is running smoothly, and this is a good time to leave it in good hands,” stated Janicki,  “I know Shelley Ewashina will be a great principal for Barriere Elementary, and I have every confidence in her taking over.”

The principal’s retirement day at the school also coincided with Halloween; and as a result, a gathering of colourfully costumed teachers and staff members came together at the end of the school day to wish Janicki and his wife all the best for the future.  However, the laughter of Halloween was quickly replaced with a few tears, as each said their goodbyes to a school principal who seems to have won the hearts of not only his students, but staff as well.

Good luck in your future endevours Mr. Janicki, the community of Barriere will miss you, as will School District 73.