The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce has named Cherylynne McKee, the principal and director of education at St. Jude‘s Scholars’ Hall Private School, as its Fearless Female for April 2026. This monthly program, sponsored by Scotiabank, highlights women business leaders throughout the Waterloo Region.
McKee has spent the last 14 years leading the school, which was founded by her parents in 1982. During her tenure, she has overseen significant growth at the facility, including the addition of 10 classrooms and a dojo, while managing a full-time staff of 45. Her commitment to education is further reflected in the school’s track record, as it has received Platinum or Diamond awards for the best private school in the region for five consecutive years.
Beyond her administrative duties, McKee is recognized for her ability to navigate complex challenges. In March 2020, she led the school through a rapid transition to online learning, effectively rebuilding the entire learning environment over a single weekend in response to the pandemic. She remains dedicated to academic growth and is currently completing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Western University, with a graduation date set for October 2026.
Her academic background also includes a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Western University, a Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University, and an Honours Bachelor of Political Science from Wilfrid Laurier University. Through the St. Jude‘s Scholars’ Hall, McKee continues to focus on providing inclusive, student-centered education that builds upon the school’s long-standing history in the community.
