Year-end letter from the interim superintendent

Dear New Westminster School District Community,

 

I am writing to wish you a “happy summer” and to say, “thank you”. I have had the privilege of working for New Westminster Schools since Spring Break when your former superintendent, Karim Hachlaf, left to become Burnaby’s superintendent. Since then, the Board of Education has gone through a search process and named the new superintendent for the upcoming school year, Mr. Mark Davidson.

During my time here, I enjoyed working with staff, students, parents, and community partners. I am grateful for the friendly support and expertise district staff and school principals and vice-principals provided when I took on this role. Likewise, I hope my contributions have supported the district during this period of leadership change and as New Westminster Schools faces enrolment growth and serves an increasing metropolitan student population.

I particularly enjoyed visiting schools, meeting students and staff, and taking part in district events. My experience with Student Voice at the Student Symposium was unforgettable. The articulate, future-oriented, and well-informed young people at the Symposium were inspiring. It was heartening to see, first-hand, results stemming from the quality of work happening in New Westminster schools.

During the final weeks of May, Mark Davidson, your incoming superintendent, visited schools and district departments. It was generous of him to devote time to get acquainted with the district before his July 2024 start and for that we are thankful. The opportunity to experience our schools while they are in session serves as an invaluable foundation for his future as superintendent.
Finally, on behalf of all district staff, we extend our very best wishes to graduating students and our retirees as you move into a new phase in life. To returning students and families, we look forward to seeing you again in the new school year.

Have a wonderful and safe summer and thank you for the opportunity to serve your community.

 

Sylvia Russell
Interim Superintendent