Supplied by the Huron Superior Catholic District School Board…
Sault Ste. Marie: Two dedicated educators with the Huron-Superior Catholic District School
Board (HSCDSB) will be retiring this summer after long and successful careers.
Maria Esposito, Superintendent of Education will retire on June 30 alongside Judy Ritza, Catholic
Curriculum Coordinator. Together, these two employees have combined for nearly 80 years of
service with HSCDSB.
Esposito, a long-serving Board Office employee, has been an educator since 1973, serving as
Teacher, Vice-Principal, Principal and Superintendent of Education.
“Maria leaves behind a rich legacy of service and dedication to Catholic education,” said Rose
Burton Spohn, Director of Education.
“As someone who has devoted over 40 years to the Huron-Superior Catholic District School
Board, Maria’s impact on students, families, and employees is monumental. She has held many
positions over the years – as classroom teacher, vice-principal, principal, and superintendent –
and has poured her heart and soul into every one of them,” expressed Burton Spohn.
As Superintendent of Education, Maria’s portfolio included K–12 Catholic Curriculum, School
Effectiveness, Equity and Inclusive Education, Board Leadership, NTIP, Indigenous Education,
Safe Schools, Special Education, Best Start Program, Early Learning, Environmental Education
as well as a family of elementary and secondary schools.

“I am very grateful and deeply humbled to have served in my vocation as a Catholic educator the
Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board. I have so many positive memories of the people I
have met along my journey – students, parents, staff, trustees and community partners,” said
Maria Esposito.
Maria brought to the Superintendent’s position a unique blend of experience, leadership skills,
values, passion, and an intimate understanding of the Board that has continued to serve the
Board well.
“Thank you to all past and present esteemed colleagues for your passion and care. May God’s
blessings grace you always in all you do,” added Esposito.
After 33 years in education and focusing on student achievement, Judy Ritza, the current Catholic
Curriculum Coordinator 7 – 12, retires at the end of the month.
Ms. Ritza taught in both the elementary and secondary panels, and worked as a Student Services
Counsellor, becoming Lead Teacher before accepting her current position.
“My career in education has been so rewarding. It was a privilege to work with committed and
caring teachers and administrators, who strive tirelessly to meet the needs of students and inspire
success. I will truly miss being part of this vibrant learning community,” stated Judy.
“Judy has been an integral part of our Catholic Curriculum Department and Secondary Program
Team for as long as I have known her,” said Rose Burton Spohn, Director of Education.
“She possesses a depth of knowledge and experience in many areas, including numeracy,
literacy, and preparing students for post-secondary pathways,” added Burton Spohn.
HSCDSB would like to thank Maria and Judy for their many years of dedicated service to our
board and wish them much peace and joy in retirement.