May. 22, 2025
When Karena Munroe was named Canada’s Distinguished Principal of the Year by the Canadian Association of Principals, the news was met with celebration, not only for the award itself but for what it represents.
Currently principal at David Thompson School and formerly at Sherwood School, Karena is known for elevating student voice, building meaningful partnerships, and her conviction that public education is the heart of democracy and that building schools students want to learn at and teachers want to work at is a shared responsibility.
Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “If you’d told my 15-year-old self, who had just dropped out of high school, that I’d one day be a nationally recognized principal, I’d have laughed. But here we are.”
While her path to school leadership was unconventional, the experiences laid the groundwork for her creative, student-centered and collaborative philosophy. This national recognition celebrates years of contributing to school improvement and walking alongside dedicated educators and generous collaborators.
At Sherwood School, Karena worked with staff to dramatically improve reading outcomes, especially in Grades 4 and 5, participation in school culture and boost Grade 9 PAT scores. She partnered with YCC Ogden, local churches, and Educational Thought Leaders to secure funding for a basketball court, run community programs, and engage the Calgary Police Services to supervise school dances.
Now at David Thompson School, she continues to prioritize meaningful learning experiences rooted in creativity, culture, and student voice. After the announcement, colleagues offered their congratulations, by sharing their current successful student diversity projects. “You’ll love this,” they said.
She credits her early experiences directing a street theatre troupe and teaching drama for shaping her participatory approach to leadership.
“When you show up, stay human, and make space for others to shine, student success is a shared experience.”
For Munroe, this award is a recognition of personal achievement and a celebration of collective resilience, creativity and the belief that schools are communities where every voice matters.
Munroe’s message to future educators?
“For those who don’t feel like they fit the traditional leadership mold — stay in it,” she said. “Believe in yourself. We need leadership that looks different than it used to.”
