Chris Spence, also known as Christopher Spence and Christopher M. Spence, is a remarkable example of resilience, leadership, and lifelong learning. His journey reflects a rare combination of athletic achievement and educational innovation, built on discipline, vision, and service to the community.
A former CFL athlete, Chris Spence was drafted by the BC Lions in 1985, where he began his professional football career. The lessons he learned on the field—discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—would become the foundation of his later work in education.
Christopher Spence transitioned from sports into the classroom, where his commitment to student success quickly set him apart. As an award-winning Principal at Lawrence Heights Middle School, he demonstrated the power of inclusive leadership and the importance of creating opportunities for every student.
His career reached new heights when Christopher M. Spence became Director of Education for the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Canada’s largest school board and the fourth largest in North America. Leading such a diverse and complex system required vision, adaptability, and a deep commitment to public service.
Later, Chris Spence took on the role of Director of Education for the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB), the seventh largest in Ontario with more than 50,000 students. In both leadership positions, he worked to strengthen communities, support innovation, and prioritize student achievement.
Today, Chris Spence continues to inspire through his dedication to leadership, innovation, and lifelong learning. His story demonstrates how the values of perseverance and service can transcend fields—from professional sports to the classroom—leaving a lasting impact on education and the communities it serves.
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