Leadership Announcement - Assumption Roman Catholic School, Oyen
Christ The Redeemer (CTR) Catholic Schools is pleased to announce the Richelle Smigelski as Principal of Assumption Roman Catholic School.
Compassionate, driven, and deeply committed to student success, Ms. Smigelski is ready to make the months ahead both memorable, meaningful, and rooted in faith. Her energy and enthusiasm for education shine through in everything she does, and we know she will help make the rest of this school year truly spectacular.
Ms. Smigelski has been teaching since 2008, beginning her career in the Oyen area and later joining Christ the Redeemer Catholic Schools. Over the course of her career, she has worked with students from Kindergarten all the way to Grade 12, taking on a wide range of roles that highlight her versatility, leadership, and genuine care for students.
Her vast experience, spanning early childhood education, athletic director, and core subjects, has shaped her into a well-rounded educator who understands the unique needs of learners at every stage. Richelle embraces the mission of Catholic education by helping students grow not only in knowledge, but in faith, kindness, and service. We feel truly fortunate to have someone with such depth, passion, and spiritual groundedness stepping into administration.
Born and raised in the area, Ms. Smigelski knows firsthand the strength of small communities. She believes deeply in the power of rural schools and their ability to create tight-knit connections, provide meaningful experiences, and offer students opportunities they might not find anywhere else. She understands the value of community involvement, mentorship, and the lifelong bonds that grow in places like Assumption School.
Ms. Smigelski graduated from South Central High School in Oyen, completed her first two years of her Bachelor of Education at Red Deer College, and finished her degree at the University of Alberta. Her journey has brought her full circle back home, where she can continue investing in the students and community she cares so much about.
Ms. Smigelski is excited for the challenge of this new dual role and looks forward to continuing her work with her Grade 1/2 class while supporting staff, students, and families in this leadership position. Her passion for Catholic education, her care for students, and her unwavering commitment to fostering a Christ-centered learning environment make her an incredible asset to Assumption School.
Superintendent Dr. Andrea Holowka shares, “We are pleased to announce that Ms. Smigelski will assume the role of principal during Chloe Dick’s maternity leave. She is deeply committed to ensuring high-quality learning for all students and to partnering with families to support their child’s growth. Her leadership is firmly rooted in our Catholic faith, and she continues to model the values that guide our school communities. Congratulations Richelle!”