Chief Executive Officer

Dr. JoAnna Roberto

Dr. JoAnna Roberto

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Education Officer (CEdO)

JoAnna Roberto is a passionate advocate for student success, inclusion, and lifelong learning. An accomplished educator and visionary leader, she brings more than 29 years of experience in public education. She is committed to creating learning environments where every student, educator, and community member can thrive.

Since joining the Grand Erie District School Board as Director of Education in 2020, JoAnna has led the organization through a transformative vision to Learn, Lead and Inspire. Under her leadership, the district has advanced innovative initiatives that strengthen student achievement, well-being, belonging, and system excellence.

JoAnna has led and championed the implementation of two Multi-Year Strategic Plans, the Grand Erie Math Action Plan, the You Belong Here campaign, the Innovation Hub @ Grand Erie, the Grand Welcome Centre, the Centre for Excellence: Teaching, Learning and Belonging, Artificial Intelligence and Educational Assistant Micro-Credentials, the first-of-its-kind College within a School, and an international education program. She has also fostered meaningful partnerships that support Indigenous education, student wellness, equity, and community engagement, including collaborations with the Haudenosaunee Sports Development Group, the Royal Chapel of the Mohawks, and The Holocaust Museum. Before joining Grand Erie, JoAnna served as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, and Superintendent of Education, Curriculum and Student Achievement with the District School Board of Niagara. She also held a role with the Ontario Ministry of Education, contributing to provincial education initiatives.

JoAnna completed the Rotman Executive Leadership Program, earned a Doctor of Philosophy from Niagara University, where her research focused on educational leadership and policy. JoAnna studied abroad at L'université d'Angers, France. She has served on the EQAO Modernization Committee, the Niagara University Teaching and Learning Advisory Committee and instructed Supervisory Officer courses at Lakehead University. Currently, she serves on the Board of Governors at Brock University.

JoAnna believes that student achievement is at the heart of every decision. Her leadership is guided by a commitment to serve, leading a culture of belonging, collaboration, innovation, and high expectations empowering, students and employees to reach their full potential.