Peace Wapiti School Division finally has the approval to hire its new superintendent. Deputy Superintendent Bob Stewart will take over the role as of September 1st.
The school division made its decision in early 2018 but had been waiting for the appointment to be okayed by Alberta’s Minister of Education. It was delayed by David Eggen’s superintendent review, but approval was granted just in time for the new school year on August 28th.
Stewart replaces outgoing Superintendent Sheldon Rowe, who spent 12 years in the position and 38 as an educator in the Peace country. PWSD Board Chair Dana McIntosh says the hiring process was extensive, but they didn’t have to look far in the end.
“Mr. Stewart was selected by the Board from outstanding candidates and identified as a leader in key areas necessary to respond to the current challenges in education, including mental health, digital citizenship and budgeting. In addition to his proven commitment to students and staff, his career experience encompassed the full scope of the Board’s educational leadership outline.”
In Stewart’s time with PWSD, he has worked in a number of positions, from being a teacher at Teepee Creek School to the principal of Clairmont Community School, Teepee Creek School, and Elmworth School from 1996 to 2011. That’s when he moved into the central office, serving as Assistant Superintendent of Inclusive Information, Assistant Superintendent of Learning Services, and then Deputy Superintendent.
He says he’s looking forward to taking the reins of the entire district.
“During the past 24 years at PWPSD, I have been fortunate to work with trustees, educators and staff who share and support my goal to provide quality educational programming and opportunities to our students. As I look ahead to the upcoming school year, I plan to continue to listen to staff to address the needs of our schools and collaborate with PWPSD leadership teams to develop professional learning opportunities that align with the new teaching quality standards.”
Rowe officially retires at the end of August.