School NEWS
Bannerjee new Head of Senior School
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n April 1, incoming Headmaster Mike Downey announced the appointment of Neil Banerjee as the next Head of Senior School at Selwyn House. He officially began his new role on August 1, 2020. Mr. Banerjee previously held the position of Principal at Kell’s Academy. Prior to that, he was Assistant Director at Pearson Adult and Career Centre and Vice Principal at Beurling Academy. Mr. Banerjee’s teaching experience is in the field of Physical Education and Media Technology in the IB MYP program with the Lester B. Pearson School Board. Mr. Banerjee holds a Bachelor of Education degree and a Master’s of Educational Leadership from McGill University. He has also served on the Board of Governors for the Greater Montreal Athletic Association and has coached a variety of sports.
Throughout his career, Mr. Banerjee has actively worked on programs for the academic, social, and emotional development of young people. He has demonstrated his support for athletics, the arts, yearbook, and many other extracurricular activities. He is both a participant and proponent of continuing professional development. As an educational leader, Mr. Banerjee indicated that he was compelled by Selwyn House’s vision and commitment to Veritas. In his own words, “The Selwyn House vision resonated with me, as I am a firm believer in the significance of building self-awareness, empathy, trust, and advocacy in all students. These virtues are fundamental in guiding young males to lead a purposeful life.” Mr. Banerjee says he is very excited about joining the Selwyn House family. “I am certain he will be an outstanding
addition to our school,” says Mr. Downey.
Lajoie new Head of MIddle School
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n May 11, incoming Headmaster Mike Downey announced that Sebastien Lajoie will be the new Head of Middle School at Selwyn House, effective July 2020. Mr. Lajoie has been the learning strategist for the Senior School for the last six years. Prior to that, he spent seven years at Wildwood Academy in Oakville, Ontario in roles that included Director of E-Learning and Coordinator of Social Studies. He also spent a couple of years teaching history and French (Grades 7-10) at St. Michael’s Grammar School in Melbourne, Australia. In his six years at Selwyn House, Mr. Lajoie has mainly worked with the boys in Grades 9, 10 and 11, with the Kindergarten to Grade 2 boys in Elementary School, and spent much of his first year working with the Middle School. “Mr. Lajoie brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and knowledge to the already very strong team in Middle
School,” said Mr. Downey. “Many of you know him well and will be very
supportive as he helps move us into the future.” Veritas, page 15
