Durham school board appoints Jim Markovski as next CEO

The Durham District School Board says Jim Markovski, a DDSB educator and leader for more than 25 years, will take over as chief executive officer in the new year, succeeding Camille Williams-Taylor.

By Daily Durham News

Nov 13, 2026, 11:30 a.m. ET2 min read

The brick exterior of Julie Payette Public School in Whitby, with its front entrance and flagpole, under a clear blue sky. File photo. — File photo: Julie Payette Public School in Whitby, a Durham District School Board elementary school. The photo does not show Jim Markovski or the board's offices. · Credit: Andrii Makukha / Wikimedia Commons

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) has appointed Jim Markovski as its next chief executive officer, the board announced Friday, Nov. 13, 2026. Markovski will officially assume the role in the new year.

Markovski has been a DDSB educator and leader for more than 25 years, the board says. He currently serves as associate director and chief operating officer, academic services, and chief education officer. He previously served as a superintendent of education, responsible for the Early Years, Poverty Reduction Strategy and Ignite Durham Learning Foundation portfolios, and as a staff development officer supporting school administrative teams. He has also been a classroom teacher and a principal.

Board Chair Tracy Brown said Markovski is a grounded, confident leader who is clear and thoughtful in his direction, and collaborative in his approach. Brown said the trustees are confident in his experience and ability to lead the board as it continues to grow alongside its communities.

Markovski said he feels fortunate to be entrusted with the mandate and thanked the trustees for the opportunity to serve the DDSB community. He said he looks forward to building on the board's collaboration in service of students, families and staff, and that the commitment to meaningful learning experiences, community connections and inclusive learning spaces remains unwavering.

Brown also thanked outgoing CEO Camille Williams-Taylor for her skillful and inspiring leadership in the role since 2022, saying the board is well positioned for the future as a result of her people-centred leadership.

The DDSB says Markovski immigrated to Canada as a child and enrolled in a public education English as a Second Language program, and brings a commitment to supporting connection and belonging for each student. The board serves more than 80,000 regular day students in 142 elementary and secondary schools and learning centres across Durham Region, and employs more than 13,000 teaching and educational services staff.

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