Episode 53 - Podcast Lounge Series | Reg Klassen: Voices From the CASSA Leadership Conference

Podcast Episodes

Episode:

53

guest episode

February 3, 2026

Podcast Lounge Series | Reg Klassen: Voices From the CASSA Leadership Conference

Equity in Schools

Civic Engagement

Diversity & Inclusion

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In this episode of Education Matters, host Jason Buccheri explores the vital role of educational identity in the modern school system with guest Reginald Klassen, the Executive Director of CASSA. As a special installment in the “Podcast Lounge Series,” this episode features a collection of voices recorded directly in the podcast lounge during the annual Canadian Association of School System Administrators Conference. The conversation challenges the idea of a centralized education system, presenting instead a pan-Canadian ethos centered on equity and student potential.

The two discuss these ideas through insights from guest speakers interviewed in the podcast lounge. These “micro-interviews” cover themes ranging from diversity and multiculturalism to high-performing school systems and the foundational role of truth and reconciliation. Throughout the episode, Klassen emphasizes the “gift” of public education, ensuring a robust system where every student is supported as a citizen in a democratic society. This episode provides a compelling look at how education helps develop well-rounded citizens capable of nuanced thinking across the country.

This episode is brought to you by ⁠CASSA (the Canadian Association of School System Administrators)⁠. CASSA unites school superintendents and system leaders from coast to coast to tackle Canada’s biggest public-education challenges, with a sharp focus on equity, student success, and collaboration. Learn more at ⁠cassa-acgcs.ca⁠.

About The Guest

Reginald Klassen

Reg Klassen is currently the Executive Director of the Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA).

Prior to his time as Executive Director for the Canadian Association of School System Administrators (CASSA) Reg spent thirty-six years serving students in several communities and a variety of educational positions. He has worked in numerous capacities including Guidance Counsellor, Resource Teacher, Classroom Teacher, School Administrator, Superintendent, and Chief Superintendent.

Reg brings with him a comprehensive understanding of education as it relates to leadership, administration, staffing, curriculum, and community. He sees the main goal of education is “to prepare students to take their place in society as citizens in a democracy, a democracy that gives time for and encourages people (students) to discuss those issues that are common to them with the intent of finding a resolution that is beneficial to all involved so that a good life can be achieved”.

Reg Klassen is a well-respected educator, leader and visionary, with a wealth of knowledge and experience in providing quality educational programs for diverse students in a variety of settings. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Theology, Arts, and Education, and a master’s in Education Administration.

He has served as the Chair of the Canadian Association of Mennonite Schools and the Manitoba Federation of Independent Schools Education Committee, and as the President of the Manitoba Association of School Superintendents and President of the Canadian Association of School System Administrators. Currently he is a Board member of the Toba Centre for Children and Youth.