Dr. Scott Benwell has resigned as Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer of School District 85 (SD85).
SD85 put out an announcement on its website, stating, “It is with sadness that Board Chair Leightan Wishart announces Dr. Scott Benwell’s departure as Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer effective July 31, 2018. Since the 2016 – 2017 school year, Scott has been seconded to the Ministry of Education in the role of Field Liaison for Aboriginal Education.”
Wishart added SD85 wishes Dr. Benwell “the best in his new position as Superintendent of Schools and Chief Executive Officer of School District No. 64 (Gulf Islands) effective January 1, 2019.”
According to the announcement, “since 2011, Dr. Benwell has played a critical role in the development and success of the school district and we will miss his inspiring leadership. He kept our focus on improving student achievement, even during the difficult fiscal challenges of the last few years. His experience and commitment have been a huge asset to the Board. The Board of Education wishes Scott and his family the very best in the future.”
The Board of Education will be meeting next week to decide on the process of recruiting a Superintendent of Schools and Chief Executive Officer.
When asked to comment further, Wishart stated Carol Robertson will continue on as acting superintendent until July 31. “The board recently (December meeting) offered her an extension on her temporary appointment as Acting Superintendent, which she accepted.”
Dr. Benwell was unavailable for comment as of press time, but did say he would be able to respond in time for the March 21 edition of the North Island Gazette.
