The Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Jessica Thomas has been appointed chief superintendent, effective September 1, 2026.
Thomas succeeds Chief Superintendent Dr. Bryan Szumlas, who will retire on August 31, 2026, after six years as chief superintendent and more than 35 years of service to CCSD.
Thomas brings 27 years of experience in Catholic education and a deep commitment to ensuring every student is known, supported and empowered to realize their God-given potential.
Throughout her almost three-decade career with CCSD, Thomas has served in a variety of leadership roles, including teacher, health and physical education consultant, vice principal, principal, supervisor of recruitment, director of human resources and, most recently, superintendent of People Services. Her appointment as chief superintendent reflects a career defined by service, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to excellence in Catholic education.
"The board's priority throughout this process was to identify a leader who embodies our Catholic faith, demonstrates exceptional educational leadership and possesses the vision, integrity and experience to guide our district into the future," said Lory Iovinelli, chair of the CCSD Board of Trustees. "Jessica Thomas is a highly respected leader in our district who understands our mission, values our people and is deeply committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. The board is confident she is the right leader to build on the strong foundation of excellence we have established at CCSD."
The appointment follows an extensive international search led by the Board of Trustees, along with executive search firm DHR Global, to support the process. Beginning in April 2026, the board sought input from shareholders through confidential consultations with senior leaders, a district-wide survey that received more than 800 responses from teachers, staff, parents, families and community members and a comprehensive interview process. The board used this feedback to identify the leadership qualities, experience and vision needed to lead the district into the future.
As chief superintendent, Thomas's vision is to ELEVATE CCSD by strengthening the board priorities of Student Success, Well-Being, Faith Formation, Indigenous Education and organizational excellence. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership style, strategic thinking and focus on creating conditions where students and staff can thrive.
"Catholic education is more than a system of schools. It is a ministry of hope, service and transformation," said Thomas. "I am honoured to serve as chief superintendent and to work alongside our Board of Trustees, staff, families, clergy and parish communities to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, spiritually and personally."
Thomas believes publicly funded Catholic education continues to play a vital role in Alberta. "Our Catholic schools provide exceptional learning opportunities while nurturing faith, character, belonging and service to others," she said. "I am committed to building on the strong foundation that exists within CCSD and to elevating opportunities for every learner, every employee and every school community."
"It has been an honour to serve as chief superintendent of CCSD, and I am delighted to see Jessica Thomas take on this important leadership role," said Dr. Bryan Szumlas, chief superintendent. "Jessica knows this district, understands the importance of our Catholic mission and vision and has demonstrated throughout her career that she leads with a genuine commitment to students and staff. I know CCSD is in very capable hands, and I look forward to supporting Jessica as she begins this next chapter."
In addition to her leadership within education, Thomas serves as a director on the Calgary Stampede Board of Directors, an advisory member with the Mount Royal University Faculty of Education and an appointed panel member of the Alberta Teaching Profession Commission, reflecting her commitment to governance, leadership and public service.
Thomas holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Alberta, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary, a Human Resource Management Certificate from Mount Royal University, Superintendent Leadership Quality Standard certification and the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation.
The Board of Trustees is confident that Thomas will continue to strengthen CCSD's reputation as a leader in Catholic education while building on its tradition of faith, innovation and student success.
