Martin Morigeau Elementary, located southernmost in the Columbia Valley in Canal Flats, will have a new principal for the 2011-2012 year.

Former principal Doug Yukes, who retired at the end of the 2010-2011 year, has left a place for new principal Gail Rines.

Rines has worked in the educational field for over 25 years, doing volunteer work, substitute teaching and full-time time teaching.

She previously taught in Kelowna and on the Sunshine Coast with School District No. 46, to name a few locations.

Along with plenty of experience, Rines also has several post-secondary credentials under her belt.

“I can’t remember not wanting to be a teacher,” said Rines.

Since moving to the Columbia Valley and visiting Martin Morigeau, Rines has a positive and exciting outlook for the new school year.

“I loved the school, right off the bat,” said Rines. “I have a lot of experience in small, rural schools. They have a really great sense of community that they bring and are a great workplace. It was just a good fit for me.”

Rines will be continuing to promote student and school excellence this year and is excited for the fall.

“I’m hoping to get to know every student and staff member, and continue moving forward with the school’s positive growth,” said Rines.

“My role is to support the students, parents, staff and more, and I hope to accomplish this. I’m really looking forward to this assignment and am excited to be in a new community. It’s a great opportunity for me and I think I bring a lot of good experience with me to the school.”