Northern Gateway Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie Mattson as Acting Assistant Principal at Elmer Elson Elementary School for the 2026-27 school year.
A dedicated educator and proud Mayerthorpe local, Ms. Mattson brings more than a decade of experience within the division, along with a deep commitment to student growth, school culture, and community connection. Since joining NGPS in 2012, she has consistently demonstrated leadership that extends beyond the classroom - creating meaningful opportunities for students to engage, belong, and succeed.
Ms. Mattson began her career with NGPS at Percy Baxter Middle School in Whitecourt, where she led the Learning through the Arts program, enriching core instruction through creative integration, and designed innovative Physical Education programming to increase engagement among Grade 7 students. She also served as Lead Teacher for the Grade 7 Professional Learning Team, supporting collaboration and instructional excellence among staff. Her dedication to student development was further reflected in her involvement in tutoring, coaching, and leading a wide range of athletic teams and school events.
Since 2015, Ms. Mattson has been a valued member of the Elmer Elson Elementary School community. In addition to her work as a Grade 6 teacher, she has been instrumental in strengthening student life and school culture, organizing and leading after-school athletics programming for Grades 5 and 6, collaborating with administration to establish a Student Council, and championing mentorship and capacity-building initiatives among both students and staff. As staff wellness lead, she has played a key role in fostering a positive and supportive working environment.
Superintendent Kevin Bird shared, "Katie's commitment to students, her passion for learning, and her deep roots in the community make her an exceptional fit for this role. We are confident that her leadership will have a lasting and positive impact on the Elmer Elson Elementary School community."
Reflecting on her appointment, Katie Mattson: "I am incredibly honoured to step into this leadership role in the community that raised me. After years of teaching in this division, I'm excited to give back to NGPS in a new way by continuing to support instructional leadership alongside the dedicated staff at Elmer Elson Elementary."
Ms. Mattson holds a Bachelor of Physical Education/Education Combined degree, and is an active member of the Division's COMPASS Leadership Program.
Congratulations Katie!
