Root to Canopy: How Pino Buffone Is Building a Stronger Future for Public Education
Pino Buffone’s return to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board marks a new era focused on system-wide coherence, equity-driven programming, and deep human connection, grounded in decades of classroom and leadership experience.
When Dr. Pino Buffone began his career as a Grade 1 teacher nearly three decades ago, it wasn’t the role he envisioned. “I always thought I’d be an intermediate-senior teacher,” he shared on The LearnIt Podcast. “But that unexpected start shaped me. I wouldn’t have self-selected it, but I’m so grateful I got the chance.”
Today, as Director of Education at Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB), Ontario’s largest English-language school district in the east, Pino draws on every twist and turn of his journey, from his early days teaching special education and ESL, to leading system-wide strategy in urban and rural districts.
His leadership philosophy is both personal and systemic: education is a means to empower individuals and unite communities. And his approach is deeply informed by his upbringing as the child of Italian immigrants who, despite being illiterate, instilled in him a reverence for learning.
"They couldn't read or write," Pino said. "But they had perseverance, oral communication skills, and a deep belief in the value of education. I never knew as a child they were illiterate. I just thought helping them with bills was one of my chores."
Leading With a “Synergy of Systemness”
At the heart of Pino’s vision for the OCDSB is what he calls a “synergy of systemness”, aligning policies, mindsets, and priorities across the district to ensure that every student has access to high-quality programming, regardless of where they live.
"When we align around a small number of ambitious goals of learning, well-being, and social responsibility and ensure our policies and practices reflect those goals, the system moves forward together," he explained.
This vision isn’t theoretical. It has guided major decisions since he returned to OCDSB in 2023, including the launch of a comprehensive elementary program review designed to reduce early streaming and increase equity of access.
"We want to keep as many doors open as possible for students," he said. "Too often, program selection in early years can close pathways before a student truly understands their options."
His analogy? A tree.
"The early years are the roots. Elementary is the trunk that keeps students together. Secondary is the branches, where students can explore their interests. And adult education is the canopy, always growing."
A Director Who Walks the Halls
Unlike many system leaders, Pino still carves out time every week to visit schools. He believes there is no substitute for being present and listening to the people closest to students.
"I could stay at my desk all day on every day of the week…and still have work ahead of me the next Monday morning!" he joked. "But walking hallways, observing classrooms, and talking to students, that's where you really learn."
This boots-on-the-ground approach allows him to identify what’s working, where gaps exist, and how to lead with empathy. His weekly school visits are also a signal to staff: that leadership is about people, not just policies.
Building a Framework for Ethical AI Use
Like many education leaders, Pino sees artificial intelligence as a transformative tool, if used thoughtfully. His team is developing an AI framework for both classroom instruction and board operations.
"AI raises big questions," he noted. "How do we ensure digital etiquette, digital decision-making, and digital wellness? We need to teach students not just how to use these tools, but when and why."
He compares AI to the calculator, once a feared innovation. “There was pushback at first. But over time, it became clear that calculators made math more accessible. I believe AI will do the same for many areas of learning.”
Pino Buffone on The LearnIt Podcast
Addressing Today’s Challenges with Courage
While excited about the future, Pino doesn’t shy away from the challenges facing public education, especially post-pandemic. One of his primary concerns is societal polarization and its impact on students.
"We’re seeing more friction in schools, whether ethnically, culturally, or ideologically. Our classrooms must become places where we can teach away hate, dismantle stereotypes, and cultivate critical consciousness."
To that end, the OCDSB continues to invest in its IDEA strategy: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility. This includes ongoing professional development, curriculum changes, and community conversations.
"Education has the power to create a better society," he said. "That’s why I believe it’s still the noblest of professions."
Advice for the Next Generation of Educators
For those considering a career in teaching or education leadership, Pino offers three words: openness, opportunity, and perseverance.
"Stay in a growth mindset. Take the job that scares you. Sometimes the roles you don’t choose for yourself are the ones that teach you the most."
He also urges young educators to find mentors and community: “I wouldn’t be where I am without those who saw something in me and gave me a chance. We all need people like that.”
The Long Game
What makes Pino Buffone different is his long view. He knows that the most meaningful results often come years after the decisions are made.
"A lot of what I do now, I won’t see the fruit of. But I’ve benefited from the foresight of those who came before me. It’s my turn to do the same for the next generation."
In a time of quick fixes and political pressures, that kind of leadership is rare and essential.