Principal & Vice Principals

Derek Laidlaw, Principal

I am grateful to work in a school that is connected and supported by this amazing community. We pride ourselves on providing a safe and inclusive learning environment where all students feel that they can be challenged and supported. My career in education began in Hamilton, ON and I have supported many schools throughout my career. I live with my family in Perth County and we enjoy exploring the parks, rivers, and conservation areas of Perth County. I look forward to serving the Mitchell community as Principal of MDHS.

Josh McClinchey, Vice Principal

Joshua McClinchey is a lifelong learner and educator. From Bayfield, Ont., Josh started his career with AMDSB in 2005 and has worked as an English, history, and art teacher, as well as a Learning for All Coach. His formal education includes a Master of Science from Daemen University and a Master of Education from Western, and feels that the learning journey is never done for educators; leading by example is a foundation for trust. He is a father of three, a husband of one, and a firefighter in his hometown.

Chris Rawes, Vice Principal

I have been teaching in the MDHS board for 23 years and 20 years at AMDEC. My teachables include Business/Computer Studies and the Social Sciences. I developed a social science curriculum for the Ministry and wrote a textbook for the social sciences. My spare time is spent at CrossFit and collecting vinyl records.