Art Hanson to take over as Sacred Heart Academy principal

By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Beginning in August, Sacred Heart Academy will see Art Hanson stepping in to replace Paulette Chotowetz as principal.

Chotowetz announced her retirement at the end of the current educational year in January after serving as an educator with Sacred Heart for 25 years.

Hanson, already a veteran of the local community, has been serving as vice principal of Holy Cross Collegiate for the last 17 years.

“It has been an amazing experience, but I am super excited and blessed for the opportunity to become principal at Sacred Heart Academy,” said Hanson. “My kids went through this – my two boys went through Sacred Heart; my wife taught there for 20 years as well, and I am blessed to begin that journey in August to help with the education and the faith component of our Catholic education.”

He added after seeing Chotowetz’s announcement of her retirement, he felt called to apply for the position and aim to take the next step in his own career.

Hanson described the move as “coming full circle,” having begun teaching elementary students over 20 years ago – moving to help educate junior and senior high students, and now returning to the K-6 environment.

“It is going to be hard to say goodbye, but the best part about it is that I am actually just going right next door. Our buildings are connected, I am still going to see the students in junior and senior high; I will still see staff in our wonderful faith-based community,” he said. “I feel like I know a lot of the community members already, so it is bittersweet. I am super excited and grateful for the opportunity, but it will be sad not walking through the Holy Cross doors for coming into work in August.”

Hanson explained he anticipates the first several months, if not the first year taking over from Chotowetz to be about listening and hearing what has made the school special so far, and forming relationships with the more immediate staff, stakeholders, students, and parents.

Additionally, he said the time will be about learning what needs to be done around the school to continue improving and making it an exemplary place of learning.

Hanson graduated with his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Alberta, then achieved his Master’s through Gonzaga University. He found his way into Strathmore in 2005.

“As a principal in Christ the Redeemer schools, I think my priority will still remain fostering a Christ-centered environment where every student feels safe, cared for, and loved,” he said. “I already know so many of these families, so I just want to continue to strengthen those ties and ensure parents feel like they are still true partners in their children’s education.”