Episode:
37
guest episode
July 3, 2025
David DeSantis: From Immigrant to Education Leader
Leadership in Education
Literacy & Leadership
Education Policy
Listen or watch on your favourite platform
In this episode, David DeSantis, the Director of Education for the Algonquin Lakeshore Catholic School Board, shares his journey from growing up in an Italian immigrant family in Hamilton, Ontario, to becoming a director of education in Ontario, Canada. He discusses the importance of music in education, the challenges faced by new teachers, and the role of mentorship in his career. David emphasizes the need for mental health support in schools, the significance of early childhood education, and the successful initiatives implemented in his school board, particularly in literacy education. He concludes with a hopeful vision for the future of education, focusing on empathy and compassion.
This episode is brought to you by Education Perfect, a complete teaching and learning toolkit built to support Canadian classrooms. Education Perfect empowers educators to track progress, personalize learning, and support purposeful practice. Its tools are flexible and designed to help Canadian teachers amplify their impact in the classroom. See for yourself and book a free demo today at educationperfect.com.
This episode is brought to you by Education Perfect, a complete teaching and learning toolkit built to support Canadian classrooms. Education Perfect empowers educators to track progress, personalize learning, and support purposeful practice. Its tools are flexible and designed to help Canadian teachers amplify their impact in the classroom. See for yourself and book a free demo today at educationperfect.com.
podcast recommendations
The Bridge by Peter Mansbridge
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A Canadian political podcast hosted on SiriusXM’s Canada Talks.
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David specifically recommends the Friday episodes, which feature Chantal Hébert and Bruce Anderson discussing Canadian and global politics.
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He describes it as a great way to stay informed on geopolitics and international affairs.
About The Guest
David DeSantis
David has served as Director of Education for the Algonquin & Lakeshore Catholic District School Board since January 2019. With over 32 years dedicated to Catholic education, he brings extensive experience from previous roles as Department Head, Vice-Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent in areas such as Student Success, Leadership, and Safe Schools. David believes that public education is essential because it provides equity of opportunity, allowing every student to realize their full potential.
additional information
Algonquin & Lakeshore Catholic District School Board Multi-Year Strategic Plan 2020-2025
The ALCDSB’s Multi-Year Strategic Plan focuses on four main priorities:
- Faith
- Equity and Well-Being
- Achievement and Innovation
- Resource Management
Sponsor Message – Education Perfect
Introduction to David DeSantis
David's Current Role and Board Overview
Family Background and Immigration Story
Growing Up in Hamilton in the 1980s
Childhood Play and Street Hockey
Early School Experiences and Academic Turnaround
Discovery of Music and Its Impact
Music Education and Instrument Choice
Factory Work vs. Academic Aspirations
University Decisions and Career Misalignment
Turning Down a Music Scholarship
Entering Teaching and Early Challenges
Overcoming First-Year Teaching Struggles
Path to Administration and Mentorship
Reevaluating Elementary vs. Secondary
Power of Kindergarten and Early Education
The Profound Responsibility of Educators
The House Analogy – Elementary vs. Secondary
Parental Involvement in Elementary School
Major Challenges in Ontario Education
Reaching Every Reader Literacy Initiative
Hope for the Future of Education
Media Recommendation – The Bridge Podcast
Closing Remarks and Credits
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About the Host
Jason Buccheri is a Podcast Host & Edtech Strategist, sharing insights on education, technology, and innovation while building impactful industry connections.
