Meet the new director of education at the Ottawa Catholic School Board

Ottawa Catholic School Board head office on West Hunt Club Road in Ottawa. (Google Maps)

Mary Donaghy will be the new director of education at the Ottawa Catholic School Board, replacing the retiring Tom D’Amico.

Ottawa’s second-largest school board announced the board of trustees unanimously appointed Donaghy as the new head of the Ottawa Catholic School Board during its meeting Tuesday evening.

Donaghy has over 30 years of experience in Ottawa’s Catholic schools, serving as a teacher, department head, vice-principal, principal, superintendent and the associate director of education.

“Donaghy has led in every position with integrity, a steady presence, and a clear sense of purpose. She is known for her collaborative approach, thoughtful decision-making, and ability to bring people together around a shared vision,” the board said in a statement.

“Donaghy has also helped shape the OCSB’s direction through her work in curriculum renewal, early learning, special education, policy development, and the Board’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Donaghy will officially take over as director of education on July 1.

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as director of education. The Ottawa Catholic School Board has shaped my life in many ways - professionally, as an educator and leader, and personally, as a proud parent of three OCSB graduates,” Donaghy said in a statement. “Over the years, I’ve also been fortunate to volunteer in our schools, in the community, and at my parish, Immaculate Heart of Mary. These experiences have shown me the power of relationships and the impact of working together toward a shared purpose.”

D’Amico is retiring after a 35-year career in Catholic education, including serving as director of education since august 2020.

Enrolment increase

Donaghy takes over as head of the Ottawa Catholic School Board as it sees an increase in enrolment.

A report for the board shows enrolment is expected to increase 2,049 students for the 2025-26 school year to 50,565 students. The board had 45,193 students in 2021.

Enrolment increased 2,484 students for the 2023-24 school year and 2,055 students for 2024-25.

No reason was given for the increase in enrolment during Tuesday’s board meeting.