Mistassiniy School in Wabasca will have two familiar faces leading the way next year.

Sarah DeGiacomo is the new principal of Mistassiniy School for the 2026-2027 school year. She has worked at the school since 2009.

Trisha Vadnais is the new vice-principal of Mistassiniy School. She has 18 years of experience working in the Wabasca-Desmarais community.

According to the news release dated June 19, the Northland School Division announced Sarah DeGiacomo as the new principal and Trisha Vadnais as the new vice-principal for the 2026-2027 school year. Both of them already have a long history of working in the community.

DeGiacomo has been the school’s full-time vice-principal since 2022. She first started working at Mistassiniy School in 2009. Over the years, she has taught students in Grades 6 to 12. She has also worked as the literacy lead and the inclusive education coordinator.

“It is with great gratitude and excitement that I begin this new chapter as principal of Mistassiniy School,” DeGiacomo says. “Living in Wabasca and working at Mistassiniy School has been one of the greatest decisions of my life.”

She adds that watching local students grow up has been a great gift. Now, she even gets to work alongside some of her former students.

Before moving to Alberta, DeGiacomo worked as a graduate assistant at Lakehead University and a substitute teacher in Sudbury, Ontario. She holds degrees in History, English, and Education. She also has special training in reading and leadership from universities in Alberta.

Vadnais is taking over the vice-principal job. She brings 18 years of experience working with students and families in the Wabasca-Desmarais area. She started out as an educational assistant in 2008 and became a classroom teacher in 2013.

While teaching junior high and high school, Vadnais has focused on bringing traditional knowledge and Cree perspectives into her classes. Outside of school, she also volunteers with local health and safety groups.

“For nearly two decades, Wabasca-Desmarais has been more than just the place where I teach; it is where I raised my family and the place I call home,” Vadnais says. “My goal has always been to build strong, trusting relationships. I am honoured to work with families and staff to support safe, inclusive and culturally rich learning environments where students have the support they need to thrive.”

Vadnais has a teaching degree from the University of Alberta’s Aboriginal Teacher Education Program. She is also currently working on a master’s degree in leadership.

Cal Johnson, the superintendent for the school division, says both women are ready for their new roles.

“Sarah understands the context and priorities at Mistassiniy School and Northland School Division,” Johnson says.

He adds that Vadnais’ background in the area makes her a great fit for the job, too.

“Trisha has a strong connection to Wabasca-Desmarais and brings many years of experience supporting students and families,” Johnson says. “Her knowledge of the school community will be valuable as she begins this new leadership opportunity.”

Both women will start their new jobs when the school opens this fall.

By Armaan Khanna, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Original Published on Sep 02, 2026 at 11:00

 

This item reprinted with permission from   Lakeside Leader   Slave Lake, Alberta

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