The College of Alberta School Superintendents (CASS) is proud to announce that Michael McMann, Superintendent of the Fort Vermilion School Division, has been awarded the EXL Award for Excellence in School System Leadership. This prestigious award, jointly sponsored by the Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA) recognizes outstanding leadership in advancing student success.

McMann will receive the award at CASS' Special General Meeting on March 20, 2025, at the Fantasyland Hotel in Edmonton. As Alberta’s recipient, he will also be nominated for the national Nelson Excellence in Leadership Award for Canadian Superintendent of the Year, to be announced at the CASSA Summer Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

A visionary in education, McMann has led Fort Vermilion School Division through ground-breaking initiatives. His $12-million Building Futures Collegiate project has redefined education in Alberta, while his leadership in digital assessments and curriculum implementation has made a lasting impact. Under his direction, student achievement has soared which includes literacy proficiency increasing by 46%, with 81% of students meeting or exceeding standards. Additionally, numeracy proficiency has risen from 62% to 82%. McMann’s innovative, research-driven strategies have gained national and international recognition, with his methods being adopted in Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Denmark, and Hong Kong.

Marc Beland, Board Chair of Fort Vermilion School Division, has commended McMann’s ability to navigate complex challenges while improving student learning by stating: "Mike has not only led our division through crises but has transformed student outcomes. His vision and commitment to evidence- based education set a new standard in leadership."

Dr. George Georgiou, University of Alberta Professor, adds: "Mike McMann is the kind of superintendent every province in Canada needs. His leadership has revolutionized literacy and numeracy instruction, earning recognition at the highest levels."

Beyond student success, McMann has championed teacher mentorship and professional development. His Grow Your Own Teacher Program has received provincial recognition, and his leadership extends to key roles with governance boards that support post secondary education and health.

His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Excellence in Education Award from Dyslexia Canada, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Award, and the Social Innovation in Education Award from the University of Alberta. Most recently, McMann was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal Award from Education Minister, Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, to celebrate McMann’s significant efforts to transform Career Education and establish it as a foundation for student success.

CASS proudly congratulates Michael McMann on this well-earned recognition, celebrating his exceptional leadership and impact on education.

Source: CASS MEDIA RELEASE - March 20, 2025 | RE: Mr. Michael McMann, Excellence in School System Leadership Award

Excellence in School System Leadership Award

CASS President, Dr. Clint Moroziuk congratulates FVSD Superintendent Mike McMann at the CASS Special General Meeting in Edmonton on March 20, 2025.