Last month, the Ottawa Jewish Community School (OJCS) announced the appointment of its new Head of School, Dr. Laura Segall.

Dr. Segall will assume the role in July 2026, in time for the 2026–2027 academic year. She brings decades of Jewish educational leadership experience, most recently having served as Head of School at the Hebrew Academy in Montreal, where she completed a successful and highly regarded tenure.

As the first female Head of School in Hebrew Academy’s 60-year history, she guided the school through periods of growth and change, strengthening institutional stability while fostering innovation.

Her influence has also extended beyond her own school community through active involvement with the Quebec Association of Independent Schools and the Bronfman Jewish Education Council, where she has contributed to broader conversations about Jewish education and school leadership.

“We are excited about the vision, energy, and strategic leadership Dr. Segall will bring to OJCS at this pivotal moment in our school’s growth,” said Miriam Peters, President of the school’s Board of Directors. “Her proven ability to strengthen academic excellence while nurturing a vibrant Jewish community aligns powerfully with our aspirations for the future.”

Dr. Segall’s appointment follows a thorough and thoughtful search process that included months of stakeholder consultations, interviews, and extensive reference checks.

“It is humbling to join a school with such a long history and one that holds such a solid place in the hearts of the community,” Dr. Segall said. “My hope is to help the OJCS grow, balancing vision with operational reality to ensure that OJCS continues to thrive for at least another 80 years.”

Dr. Segall believes that Jewish education is a communal responsibility, and that there is strength in collaboration and partnership.

“When community leaders work together, the students can only benefit,” she said. “Though no two communities are the same, I am excited to discover the Ottawa Jewish and educational communities and build partnerships for OJCS with various constituents.”

The school community is also buzzing with excitement for Dr. Segall’s new role to begin. With her vast experience after serving a larger Jewish community in Montreal, her insights are seen as an asset by OJCS faculty and parents.

“I have to say that since my appointment was announced, I have been overwhelmed by the warm welcome that the Ottawa Jewish community has extended,” Dr. Segall said. “Professionals and families alike have reached out with excitement and warmth in a way I would never have expected. I am really looking forward to becoming part of the OJCS family, one that values not only Jewish education, but community.”