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MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release
November 10, 2021

North Vancouver School District Superintendent announces resignation

Earlier today, the North Vancouver Board of Education shared with the school district community Superintendent Mark Pearmain’s intention to resign to take a leadership role with the Surrey School District, as the new Superintendent of Schools. Mark had previously discussed this decision with the North Vancouver Board of Education. 

With more than 25 years’ experience in leadership roles in public schools, Mark joined the North Vancouver School District in 2014 as Assistant Superintendent. In 2016, after an extensive nation-wide search, he was appointed Superintendent of Schools/CEO. Mark’s tenure as Superintendent, coupled with his passion for innovative instructional practices and creating spaces for all learners to feel welcome, included, and valued, has been a tremendous asset to the school district. 

Mark has been instrumental in the development and implementation of a bold new 10-year strategic plan and has led the school district through three major capital projects, including the new Argyle Secondary, Mountainside Secondary’s seismic upgrade project, which is nearing completion, and a new Handsworth Secondary (February 2022). 

His focus, determination and care toward others; his ability to work with all stakeholder groups; and his deep desire to ensure the school district continues to prioritize Indigenous Education, Social Emotional Learning and Inclusive Education, has seen the school district provide quality education for all and move efficiently and effectively through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“The Board of Education is excited for this next stage of Mark’s career,” said Board Chair George Tsiakos. “We are grateful for Mark’s service to the school district community, especially his steadfast leadership throughout the pandemic. We are also thankful for the thoughtful, empathetic, and graceful manner in which Mark has brought people together to ensure that our school district continues to move forward in innovative ways to the benefit of all students and the greater North Vancouver community. His many talents will be dearly missed, and we wish him the very best in his new role.” 

“It is a significant moment,” shared Superintendent Mark Pearmain. “I am so very proud of what we have achieved together over the past seven years, and most notably, the last 18 months of the pandemic. I know the foundation of excellence in education is strong here and am confident the North Vancouver School District will continue to be a place where all students and staff come together to learn, share, grow and thrive.” 

Superintendent Mark Pearmain will remain with the North Vancouver School District until March 11, 2022 or earlier, as agreed upon by both school districts. He will then begin his new role as Superintendent of the Surrey School District. 

The North Vancouver School District will now initiate a search process for a new Superintendent of Schools/CEO.

-END-

Contact

Lisa Dalla Vecchia
Communications Manager
North Vancouver School District
604.903.1254                                                                                                    ​