Meet the Team

Kirk Dawson

B.ed, OPC, OCT

As an experienced education leader and Vice Principal with over two decades of experience, I have dedicated my career to creating equitable, inclusive learning environments where every student and family feels supported and empowered. Throughout my leadership journey, I have worked extensively with diverse communities and seen firsthand the challenges that newcomer families face when trying to navigate an unfamiliar education system.

My work has always centered on breaking down barriers, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building meaningful connections between schools, families, and communities. I have witnessed how access to the right information and supports can transform a newcomer’s experience—from feeling uncertain and isolated to feeling confident and connected.

aspirED was born from this insight. I recognized a massive gap in how newcomers access education-related information and community supports, and I knew there needed to be a better, more human way to bridge it. Through aspirED, my mission is to ensure every newcomer family has a clear path to the resources and understanding they need to help their children thrive in their new home.