The Greater Essex County District School Board announced Erin Kelly will stick around for another five years Tuesday.
Kelly will remain the board's Director of Education — a roll she took on back in 2013. Board Chair Kim McKinley says the trustees are looking forward to continuing to work with Kelly.
The confidence the board shows in her vision is something Kelly says is greatly appreciated.
"I appreciate the opportunity to lead and it's an honour and a privilege to be the Director of Education," she says. "I'm really lucky to be supported by an outstanding senior team and a group of trustees that are very supportive."
Kelly tells AM800 News Windsor-Essex is unique — she came to the area from Guelph's Upper Grand District School Board.
"One thing I've really learned is the Windsor-Essex region, because I came from a different area, is an outstanding place in terms of its partnerships with the community, its philanthropy, sense of giving and working together," says Kelly. "I found that very, very, exciting."
With five year's under her belt she says she's looking forward to following through with plans she helped develop.
"You gain more confidence in terms of a vision and we have a strong strategic plan and a strong operational plan, so I'm very hopeful about our potential," Kelly added. "As I learn more I grow and see where can go."
Kelly says she's happy with what she's been able to accomplish, but more can be done for students and she's going to continue to find new ways to improve education in Windsor-Essex.
— with files from AM800's Peter Langille.