Sherri Bell takes the helm of the Greater Victoria School District today.
She replaces John Gaiptman who retired as CEO/superintendent of schools on Feb. 14 after 12 years on the job.
“I am honoured to be appointed as the superintendent of schools for the Greater Victoria School District,” said Bell (effective March 6). “This is an exciting time in education with the changes in curriculum and the focus on personalized learning. I look forward to working with our education partners to ensure that all of our students are engaged and successful in their learning.”
When Bell was hired by the Greater Victoria School District in 1996 as the Principal of James Bay Community School, she came with a varied and successful background in education.
She was a teacher in Calgary and Cranbrook, an instructor and practicum supervisor for the University of Victoria and a principal in Lake Cowichan. She also worked as a contractor for the Ministry of Education in curriculum and assessment providing support to over half the school districts in the province.
In 2001 Bell was the district principal responsible for reconfiguring the Greater Victoria School District to implement the new K-5, 6-8, 9-12 structure. Since 2002 she has held a senior leadership position in the district, most recently as the deputy superintendent.
“I am pleased that someone with so much talent, knowledge and experience in the Greater Victoria School District and the province will be leading our District as we face the many challenges ahead” said Peg Orcherton, board chair.