Dr. Rick Gilson
Dr. Rick Gilson started his teaching career in the fall of 1985. Over his career, Rick has taught English, Social Studies, Computers, and the International Baccalaureate Theory of Knowledge course. In addition to teaching, Rick has worked in school administration at the high school level for 15 years, the last eight as principal at Grande Prairie Composite High School before moving into Central Office. After one year as District Principal in Grande Prairie, Rick accepted the Assistant Superintendent position, focusing on Inclusive Education with Westwind School District in 2013, retiring five years later to join the southern office of ARPDC as Director. Coaching, both in sports and work, has been a significant focus as Rick has coached over 70 teams, primarily football but basketball and volleyball in the mix. At work, he loves coaching and engaging in mentorship work with teachers and leaders in growing together. An avid reader, Rick shares passages and books frequently in blog and Twitter posts, is one of the co-hosts of the ARPDC Podcast and recently has enjoyed building out a YouTube playlist of pictures books...read by grandpa for his grandchildren and anyone else who would like to listen.