TMA recently learned of the sudden death of Pauline Laing, former Honorary Board Member. Our entire community is deeply saddened to hear of her loss. She was an invaluable member of our TMA family, as she provided exceptional advice and guidance to our Board. As an honorary member, Pauline led our Strategic Plans and continuously offered insights following visits to both Dominican Republic training sites. Her dedication and commitment have left a lasting impact on educators locally and internationally.
Pauline’s career in education was primarily with the Halton District School Board before she was appointed as Director of Education for the Durham District School Board in 1989. Her extraordinary leadership within the board and province was influential in numerous ways. Her knowledge and expertise in curriculum and program development helped to reshape classrooms throughout the district and province. Educators and administrators have been the recipients of her visionary and compelling leadership.
In 1996, the Durham District School Board won the prestigious Carl Bertelsmann Award for Innovative School Systems. The award focused on an international comparison of innovative school systems with the honour and cash prize of DM 300,000. This award was a tribute to Pauline’s leadership particularly as she initiated and supported educator professional learning in classroom instructional strategies both within the district and beyond.
Pauline also broke employment barriers in school and system leadership roles during a time when it was challenging for female leaders to be promoted to leadership roles. She encouraged and mentored many women to aspire to these roles. Her brilliance and human compassion are unparalleled.
Following Pauline’s tenure as Director of Education from the Durham District School Board, Pauline worked at the Ontario Ministry of Education, Curriculum Branch as well as Advisor for EQAO. She was involved in program and policy consulting in countries around the world during her retirement.
We are deeply grateful for Pauline’s unwavering support and her championing of TMA’s collaborative work in the Dominican Republic. Her wisdom and expertise have been a beacon of light for our community. Pauline Laing’s legacy will forever be cherished and remembered by the TMA community in Ontario, the Dominican Republic and beyond.
