New Westminster Schools will welcome Mark Davidson as new superintendent this summer

New Westminster, B.C. – New Westminster Schools is excited to announce Mark Davidson will join the district as its new superintendent, starting July 8.

“After an exhaustive search, Mark Davidson stood out as a current superintendent with remarkable experience producing real change in school and system culture and improving student outcomes,” said Maya Russell, chair, New Westminster Board of Education. “He has navigated many of the issues important to New Westminster Schools, including rapid enrollment growth, equitable access, a desire to continue improving learning outcomes and community engagement. We are excited about the opportunity with Mark’s leadership to build on our district’s strengths.”

Davidson has led Medicine Hat School Division since 2016 and has been in K-12 education since 2000 as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, and deputy superintendent in addition to superintendent/CEO. He also worked for Alberta Education as a senior education manager. The Medicine Hat School Division has 7,500 students, 800 staff, and a budget of $93 million.

“I am both humbled and excited that the Board has extended to me the opportunity to serve as superintendent of New Westminster School District. I am thrilled to join an organization with a culture built on commitments to equity, compassion, and research supported professional practice. I love the work we do in schools. I am so looking forward to building connections with students, families and the staff who serve them.”

Sylvia Russell (no relation to the board chair) continues as interim superintendent to provide consistent support to schools, staff, and students for the transition. The Board of Education wishes to thank district partner organizations for the time they devoted to assisting the board with the selection process, including the District Parent Advisory Council, the New Westminster Teachers’ Union, CUPE 409, the BC Principals and Vice Principals Association, and the district leadership team.

 

– 30 –

 

Contact

Mike Lee
Communications Manager

P: 778-789-7172
E: mvlee@sd40.bc.ca