New School District No. 57 (SD57) board of education trustees Sarah Holland and Shar McCrory were officially sworn-in prior to the final board meeting of the school year.
Holland and McCrory were elected during the June 17 by-election which was prompted by the resignation of trustees Betty Bekkering and Gillian Burnett who described a dysfunction school board following the dismissal of Superintendent Cindy Heitman.
“It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm we extend a warm welcome to our two newly appointed school board trustees as representatives of our vibrant community your dedication to the education and well being of our student is highly valued and appreciated,” said Board Chair Rachael Weber, during the June 27 meeting.
“Your role as trustees is vital in shaping the future of our district ensuring that our schools provide a nurturing and inclusive environment for all learners.”
Holland and McCrory were also greeting with a traditional welcome from Lheidli T’enneh Elder Darlene McIntosh, before the business of the meeting began where the board passed the budget for the 2023/24 school year which required the use of surplus and $1.7 million of mainly administrative cuts to balance.
In an interview following the conclusion of the board meeting, Weber said she was thankful to have a full board again.
“We're a family again, we don't have two holes so that's exciting. They both come with knowledge, financial knowledge, and trustee knowledge. They fill the spaces that we need, and we're very thankful for them,” said Weber.
Reflecting on the previous school year as chair, Weber said she was the board is moving forward together as a team.
“I've been through quite a bit, this board has been through quite a bit but we've also learned that everything has a cycle and with that is growth and opportunity to move forward,” said Weber.
“We're stronger together now than ever. We've come through the storm. We've shaken the mud off our boots and we're moving forward together as a team. Very proud of this board.”
She added that she would like to thank the communities Valemount, McBride, Prince George, Mackenzie and McLeod Lake for voicing their concerns.
“We are here because they elected us. They put their hope in us and we strive to make sure that these communities are heard on a daily basis in everything that we do.”
Weber notes that the district is also currently working with a search firm to fill the superintendent position, which is currently being held by acting superintendent Pam Spooner, and will have more details to share on that in the future.
