The school year is nearing it’s end, along with School District 27 losing a key voice.
Superintendent, Chris Van Der Mark announced his retirement back in December 2023, and is now wrapping up his work as he’s just weeks away from his final day.
Van Der Mark says it’s safe to say he’s feeling ready to step away from his role.
“I came in here five years ago, there was fairly significant work to be done.” says Van Der Mark.
“As we get to this point five years in, I think I can be proud of the work that the people in the district have engaged in as part of what we’ve been trying to do in terms of moving forward and continuing to get better.”
Some of Van Der Marks projects and accomplishments he’s been a part of include a stronger focus on learning, visibility of Indigenous culture, and the leadership development.
He also noted the confidence he has in Deputy Superintendent, Cheryl Lenardon who will be taking over the role, as she has already been driving a lot of the work forward.
Van Der Mark says he will be spending his retirement time fishing and spending more time with family.
He began his role as Superintendent with School District 27 back in April of 2019.
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