Matthew Bekkering appointed principal for Immanuel Christian Secondary School

Lethbridge School District No. 51 is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Bekkering as principal of Immanuel Christian Secondary School, commencing the 2019-20 school year.

Bekkering believes genuine relationships are foundational to excellence in the classroom and leadership in a school. He is committed to grounding decisions and modeling actions that are in the best interest of students.

He understands a leader must focus on nurturing and guiding a school culture that has a pervasive sense of belonging, shares common goals for learning, and compels high standards in all aspects of school and life. Bekkering also values collaboration and distributed leadership, recognizing there is huge benefit in drawing from the expertise of the staff in the school as well as the community. He is committed to maintaining and furthering innovative programming in the school, and looks forward to leading a learning community that shares a common vision and mission.

"It is a true blessing to be given the opportunity to give back and serve an Immanuel Secondary School community that has been so good to me and my family,” said Bekkering. “Immanuel Secondary has a rich heritage of providing a Christ-centred learning environment for students and of a church, home and school community that upholds us with dedication and support. I am excited to lead and work alongside a hard working and dedicated staff of educators who model their professionalism, collegiality and love of students daily. From our academics to chapels, fine arts, trades, athletics and exploratory options, our aim is providing an environment where students find belonging, engaging instruction and encouragement in developing their identity in Christ."

Currently, Bekkering is a teacher and Athletic Director at Immanuel Christian Secondary School. Prior to his appointment at ICSS, he was a teacher at Immanuel Christian Elementary School. Teaching across a breadth of grade levels provides Bekkering with insight as to where students are coming from, as well as the attributes and skills they need to successfully transition to subsequent grade levels and beyond.

Bekkering earned a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Social Sciences and a Bachelor of Education degree majoring in physical education and Social Studies at the University of Lethbridge. He also completed his Masters of Education in Educational Leadership with the University of Lethbridge.