Sherri McLachlan Obituary And Death Cause: Avon Maitland District School Board Pays Tribute to Sherri McLachlan
The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) and the Stratford, Ontario community are grieving the loss of Sherri McLachlan, a dedicated specialist, a staunch supporter of education, and cherished friend. McLachlan passed away on December 17, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. She was 52 years old.
McLachlan was a valued member of the AMDSB staff for over 25 years, serving as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, and superintendent of education. She was known for her passion, professionalism, and kindness, as well as her commitment to student success and well-being.
“Sherri was a remarkable leader and educator who touched the lives of countless students, staff, and families,” said Lisa Walsh, the director of education and secretary of the board. “She was a mentor, a colleague, and a friend to many of us, and we will miss her dearly.”
Walsh added that McLachlan was instrumental in developing and implementing various initiatives and programs within the AMDSB, such as the Early Years Strategy, the Indigenous Education Strategy, the Mental Health and Well-being Strategy, and the Equity and Inclusion Strategy.
“She always had a vision of excellence and equity for all learners, and she worked tirelessly to make it a reality,” Walsh said. “She was a strong advocate for diversity, inclusion, and social justice, and she inspired others to follow her example.”
A legacy of love and learning
Sherri McLachlan is survived by her husband, Scott, and her two children, Connor and Kaitlyn, who are both graduates of the AMDSB. She is also remembered by her extended family, friends, and colleagues, who have expressed their condolences and shared their memories of her on social media and online platforms.
“Words cannot express how much Sherri meant to me and to our school community,” wrote Anne Hathaway, the principal of Stratford Central Secondary School, where McLachlan was the superintendent. “She was a visionary, a motivator, a supporter, and a friend. She always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude, even in the most challenging times. She was a role model for all of us, and we will honour her legacy by continuing her work.”
“Sherri was more than a boss, she was a mentor and a friend,” wrote Tim Smith, a teacher at Stratford District Secondary School. “She always encouraged me to grow as a professional and as a person, and she always listened to my ideas and concerns. She was a great leader who cared deeply about her staff and students. She was one of a kind, and I will miss her greatly.”
“Sherri was the best mom ever,” wrote Kaitlyn McLachlan, her daughter. “She was always there for me and my brother, and she always supported us in everything we did. She taught us to be kind, respectful, and compassionate, and to follow our dreams. She was also a lot of fun, and we had so many good times together. She was my hero, and I love her so much.”
Sherri McLachlan BIO/WIKI
| Name | Sherri McLachlan |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | June 15, 1971 |
| Date of death | December 17, 2023 |
| Age | 52 |
| Cause of death | Cancer |
| Occupation | Superintendent of Education at AMDSB |
| Education | Bachelor of Education from University of Western Ontario, Master of Education from Brock University |
| Family | Husband Scott, son Connor, daughter Kaitlyn |
Trivia, and Facts
- McLachlan started her career as a teacher at Listowel District Secondary School in 1996 and then moved to Stratford Northwestern Secondary School in 2000.
- She became the vice-principal of Stratford Central Secondary School in 2005, and then the principal of Mitchell District High School in 2008.
- She was appointed as the superintendent of education for the AMDSB in 2014 and was responsible for overseeing 14 schools in the Stratford area.
- She received several awards and recognitions for her work, such as the AMDSB Excellence in Education Award, the Ontario Principals’ Council Award of Distinction, and the Canadian Association of School System Administrators Award of Merit.
- She was involved in various community organizations and causes, such as the United Way, the Rotary Club, the Stratford Festival, and the Stratford Perth Hospice.
- Sherri McLachlan enjoyed traveling, reading, gardening, and spending time with her family and friends.
- She was diagnosed with cancer in 2020, and underwent several treatments and surgeries, but remained optimistic throughout her journey.
- She passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loved ones, on December 17, 2023.
- A celebration of life service will be held at a later date when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
- In place of flowers, donations can be made to the Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, or the AMDSB Student Success Fund.
