After nearly two decades leading the Western School Division (WSD) as Superintendent, Stephen Ross will be retiring next year.
"Stephen's been a cornerstone of our division. He's been an incredible leader. I think he brought a genuine care and genuine interest for education to the position," said Darcy Wolfe, Chair of the Board of Trustees.
According to Wolfe, Ross is the longest-serving school division superintendent in Manitoba and believes WSD has been incredibly fortunate to have his leadership during times of growth and change.
"Western School Division looks a lot different now than when he started. The demographics have changed, there's been incredible growth. We've been one of the fastest growing divisions in Manitoba for a number of years now. He has successfully led us through a pandemic, a new school that just got built. It's been a great time to watch him lead."
The one thing about Ross' leadership that stands out for Wolfe is his student-first approach.
"In every decision that I've seen him make, and watched him go through the process, he's always putting what's best for students first," he said, adding the students that have gone through Western School Division during Ross' time as Superintendent have been better for it. "We have a motto that says, 'rooted in caring and committed to learning', and I think Stephen really has exemplified that in the way he's lead the Division."
This ethos is something Wolfe says the Board will be looking for in a replacement.
"We've taken that to heart, something that Stephen has given to us, almost like a gift to the Board. We are planning on taking that forward. We are planning on keeping our focus on students, finding the next leader who can build on the legacy that Stephen has built."
Wolfe added, the future is open and says the Board will continue to build on the Division's strengths.
While the search is still in the very early stages, Wolfe says the Board will be consulting with Parent Advisory Committees, staff and even students to find out what they are looking for in a new leader.
No specific date has been selected for Ross' retirement. Wolfe says it will all depend on how the search for a replacement goes, noting Ross has indicated he's willing to stay on until later in 2025 if necessary.