By Charles Lefebvre

Catholic Board superintendent retiring in 2019

Nov 26, 2018 | 4:21 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education is looking for a new superintendent.

Joe Colistro, who has held the post for the past five years, announced earlier this month that he is planning to retire in 2019.

His last day will be July 31.

“I don’t think there was one specific thing that encouraged me to step down, other than you get to a point that it’s time for somebody else to continue that journey,” said Colistro on Monday. “There wasn’t anything that contributed to me wanting to do that, other than I’m getting close to that age of retirement.”

Colistro joined the board in 2013, originally holding the title of interim superintendent.

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“I came hoping to make a difference, and build relationships with people,” he said. “I’ve certainly enjoyed my time here. I’ve built some great friendships, and I’ve had the opportunity with just some wonderful, caring and professional staff.

“Since I came back five years ago, I’d have to say the trustees, the staff, the parents, the students, they’ve all been very welcoming, and they’ve all been quite committed to Catholic education, and committed to creating faith-filled environments for our students.”

Colistro says he’s most proud of the board’s commitment to excellence in Medicine Hat.

“We’ve done really well in all of our results, but more importantly, I think we’ve created a safe and caring and welcoming environment,” he said. “Our schools are all very welcoming places to be, so I’m very proud of that.”

Colistro says he plans to remain involved with education after his retirement, as well as travel and spend time with his family.

The Catholic Board of Education is currently searching for a new superintendent.