Karen Tomlin is a passionate educator who has been working with students in various capacities for over forty years. Karen was a freelance percussionist and percussion teacher for a number of years prior to entering the public education system where she served as an elementary principal, a high school guidance department head/counsellor, and a high school music and social sciences teacher.

Karen is a strong believer in life-long learning and recently completed her Masters of Education: Student Affairs in Higher Education from Wilfrid Laurier University. Karen also holds a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Western Ontario and a Joint Honours Bachelor Degree in Music and Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo. 

Karen feels incredibly fortunate to have found her way to NBS in 2021 and work with such exceptionally dedicated and talented students and staff. What a joy to work in an environment where the arts and academics are both valued, celebrated and nurtured every day. Karen particularly enjoys working closely with all students, parents and staff to help prepare students for various career pathways through direct support with program planning, course selection, and post-secondary planning. 

Fun Facts: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, I have been on Family Feud Canada with my family, and I have attended Bodhran drumming summer school in Inis Oirr, Ireland