Governance, Accreditations and Affiliations

Governance

On behalf of the Board of Governors, Senior Leadership team and staff, we are thrilled to share River Valley School’s new ‘Inspiring Wonder’ Strategic Plan for 2023-2028.

2023/24 Annual Education Results Report (AERR)  Approved November 30, 2023

Board of Governors

As stewards of education, the Board of Governors at River Valley School welcomes you to our vibrant community. At the core of our mission, is a commitment to transparency, fostering meaningful community involvement, and recognizing the profound impact of giving on our school’s vision for the future. Together, we embrace the power of collaboration and unity, understanding that it is through our collective efforts that we truly enrich the lives of our students and empower them to thrive. As we embark on this journey together, we invite you to join us in shaping a brighter tomorrow for every member of our school family

Learn more – board overview.

Contact the Board

Rich Lee

Rich Lee

Board Chair

Rich Lee has been the Board Chair of River Valley School since 2022. With 7+ years as president of Greenstone Construction, and 10 years of experience in production engineering at Shell, Rich brings exceptional project management skills and a passion for seamless client communication to every project. Rich has been actively involved in the finance and assets committee, as well as the advancement committee, and was involved in the purchase of River Valley School in 2021.

Jen Kelly

Jen Kelly

Vice Chair

Jen Kelly has served as the Vice Chair of River Valley School since 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a robust skill set. Her diverse background includes extensive expertise in stakeholder management, fund development, and board governance. Prior to her current role as a consultant, Jen held key positions at Platform Calgary and Ryerson University, where she honed her leadership abilities and contributed significantly to organizational success. Her passion for community and effective management makes her a valuable asset to the River Valley School Board.

Jason Schultz

Jason Schultz

Secretary

Jason currently serves as the Director, Accounting & Tax at Whitecap Resources Inc. Jason has over 17 years of financial experience in the oil and gas and utility industries. Jason holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a major in accounting from the University of Alberta, and both Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant and U.S. Certified Public Accountant designations. Jason also serves on the board of directors of the Alberta Bulldog Rescue Society, a registered charity. Jason and his wife have one son, who is currently attending River Valley School.

Scott Crews

Scott Crews

Scott Crews is the President of Dovetail PM Inc. in Calgary, where he specializes in providing general contracting and project management services to clients across the western provinces. With 30 years of experience, Scott has successfully managed a wide range of construction projects nationwide, leveraging his background in architecture and cabinet making to effectively oversee both design-build and major interior tenant improvement projects. Scott is passionate about River Valley School and is eager to bring his expertise and dedication to the school board, supporting its mission to offer a nurturing and enriching educational experience for all students. He also serves as River Valley School’s co-chair of the Assets and Finance Committee.

Cyril Elbers

Cyril Elbers

Cyril Elbers, the Director of ESG at KPMG in Calgary, brings extensive experience in social sustainability, strategic communications, and change management to the River Valley School Board of Governors. His passion for sustainable change and belief in a bright future for the next generation are evident in his professional and board contributions. Cyril’s expertise enhances the RVS community's commitment to growth and development.

Samantha Kolias-Gunn

Samantha Kolias-Gunn

Samantha is a dynamic leader with a passion for community engagement and strategic development. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President, Corporate Development and Governance at Boardwalk REIT. She brings experience to her role as a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors Education Program. As an alumna of River Valley School, along with her three siblings, Samantha is eager to contribute her expertise and passion to the school board. Her strategic vision and dedication to building community, encouraging wonder, and instilling strong values make her a valuable resource as River Valley School continues its mission to provide a nurturing and enriching educational experience for all students.

Ravinder Minhas

Ravinder Minhas

Ravinder Minhas, a leader in the liquor and beer industry with Minhas brands sold across North America and beyond, contributes his entrepreneurial spirit and consumer-focused approach to the River Valley School Board. His ability to listen to consumer needs and deliver value translates seamlessly into his role at RVS, where he is dedicated to supporting the school's growth and success. Since joining the Board of Governors in 2023, Ravinder has been committed to enhancing the educational experience at RVS, bringing insights from his professional achievements.

Adam Phillips

Adam Phillips

Adam Phillips has been a dedicated member of the River Valley School Board of Governors since 2021, bringing extensive leadership experience in pipeline project development and execution across Canada and Mexico. Known for managing complex assignments and meeting tight deadlines, Adam's strong communication and organizational skills, combined with his hands-on work ethic, make him a valuable asset to the RVS Board. His commitment to the school’s growth and success is driven by his professional background.

Peter Pilarski

Peter Pilarski

As a parent of twin boys who proudly attend RVS, Peter is deeply invested in supporting the school community. In his role as Vice-Chair of the Advancement Committee, Peter aims to support the school's growth and fundraising efforts, utilizing his PR expertise and diverse network to enhance the school's brand and reputation. In addition to coaching his kids' soccer team, Peter volunteers on a political board in his community and supports several community initiatives in Bowness, where he and his family live. Peter believes in the power of contributing and giving back as essential elements in building a thriving society, and encourages all RVS families to be active members of the school community in order to help build Canada's best K-6 school environment.

Ranny Shibley

Ranny Shibley

Ranny is the founder and CEO of Bloom Benefits Group as well as co-owner of RJS Capital Inc. He comes to RVS with extensive board experience, having contributed to boards of energy, tech, real estate, cannabis and not-for-profit companies. Ranny also brings vast independent school experience, having sat on the West Island College board for 10 years, serving on their Planning, Alumni, Finance and Facilities Committees. Ranny is also very involved with the MS Society Calgary Chapter and has been fundraising for them since 2005. He is very excited to be joining River Valley’s board to help contribute to the future success of our children.

Tatum Woywitka

Tatum Woywitka

Tatum Woywitka has served on the River Valley Board of Governors since 2021, leveraging her extensive legal expertise to provide strategic advice on complex matters. With experience in both in-house and law firm environments, she excels in navigating legal challenges and establishing risk-mitigating policies. Tatum's proficiency spans employment and privacy issues, policy development, and contract negotiation. Her leadership and communication skills, combined with her ability to build productive relationships, play a pivotal role in supporting the effective functioning of the board and addressing business challenges at River Valley School.

Isaac Wing

Isaac Wing

Isaac Wing has been the President of AirTech Services since 2016 and has brought his leadership expertise to the River Valley School Board of Governors since 2022. With over a decade of experience, including serving as VP and President of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society, Isaac is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation. His skills in project management and training are applied to support the school's development and success.

Accreditations and Affiliations

River Valley School is accredited by Alberta Education.

We are an accredited member school within the Association of Independent Schools & Colleges of Alberta (AISCA)

River Valley School is proud to be considered a CAIS Candidate School.

River Valley is the only school in Alberta that offers the Arrowsmith Program, a scientific approach to help students overcome learning challenges. LEARN MORE