Meet Dr. Christopher Fuzessy, Superintendent of Schools and Chief Education Officer for the Foothills School Division (FSD) in southern Alberta – professionally passionate, community-centered, and delightfully down-to-earth.

Chris, his wife of nearly three decades, three lively kids, and a small army of pets (two cats and three dogs – because who doesn’t love a little chaos at home?) are originally from Montreal, Quebec. In June 2019, they made their westward move so Chris could lead FSD.

With more than 33 years in education, Chris has worn almost every hat: from educational assistant to teacher, principal, regional director in Quebec, and now division superintendent. That vast hands-on experience gives him a grounded, empathetic approach to leadership—one that values every member of the school community, from playground monitors to policy makers.

Chris holds a Bachelor of Education and an M.A. in Educational Studies from Concordia University, plus a Ph.D. in Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning from the University of Toronto's Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. His scholarly interests have even taken him to remote corners of Canada, with academic work focused on Inuit post-secondary students and educators in Nunavik.

Leadership with Heart

At FSD, Chris is dedicated to cultivating a division that truly lives its motto: “A Place for All.” He’s championed inclusive, high-impact initiatives—think innovative outdoor learning programs, French immersion, vertical farming, and thriving career-tech spaces like auto shops, blacksmithing, and cosmetology labs. His vision? Schools that are not only places of learning, but vibrant, community-centred hubs.

Chris also led FSD to win the Alberta School Boards Association Public Engagement Award in 2020, thanks to his commitment to collaborative reopening strategies during the pandemic—complete with community-informed handbooks that people across Canada requested access to.

Beyond the Office

When he's not busy shaping educational futures, Chris indulges his more grounded interests: tinkering with beginner-level carpentry projects, going for a run, or exploring the Rocky Mountains on a hike. At home, he’s the guy who navigates life’s practicalities with a smile.

Dr. Chris Fuzessy blends the thoughtful, research-informed leadership of a seasoned educator with a warm, accessible presence grounded in real-life roles and genuine community care. He's not just steering a school division—he’s helping it flourish, one inclusive, locally inspired initiative at a time.