The Sooke School District Board of Education is pleased to announce that Paul Block has been selected to fill the position of Superintendent/CEO effective January 1, 2024. He will remain in his role as Deputy Superintendent until December 31, 2023. The Board of Education began a nation-wide search for a qualified replacement on May 1, 2023, shortly after current Superintendent/CEO Scott Stinson announced his plan to retire at the end of the calendar year.
The recruitment process was led by the Board's Personnel Committee and engaged consultant Mike McKay, a well respected and highly regarded education leader in BC. The Board of Education also consulted with partner groups and designated representatives from Indigenous Nations in the Sooke School District to define attributes and abilities that were important to them in the next leader of the Sooke School District. Partner groups and designated representatives from Indigenous Nations were also involved in the interview process.
"Paul is dedicated to the success of the Sooke School District," said Amanda Dowhy, Interim Board Chair. "He leads with compassion and will bring a tremendous amount of experience and expertise as well as strong ties to partner groups and community stakeholders that are crucial as we mature and grow as an organization." Paul will work alongside Scott over the next several months to ensure a smooth transition in January.
Paul has gained a wealth of experience in his time with the Sooke School District. From beginning his career over thirty years ago as an education assistant to teacher on call to working in the summer as a labourer for the Facilities Department, he has successfully risen to roles with more demands and responsibilities. He has a long history of strong relationships with Indigenous leaders, Ministry staff and local municipal representatives.
"Paul and I have come full circle" said Ravi Parmar, Former Board Chair. "He was my teacher in grade 7 and I was part of the hiring panel when he was appointed as an Associate Superintendent back in 2016 and as Deputy Superintendent earlier this year. There is no question in my mind that he is the right choice to lead the Sooke School District into its next chapter."
"For me, it is a testament to the strength of connection the Sooke School District has with it's staff. My story is evidence of the District's investment in their people and by extension, the greater community. From humble beginnings, to be here today named as the next Superintendent/CEO is the honour of a lifetime," said Paul Block. "Without missing a beat in transition, we will continue the work of making good things happen for our students, staff, parents and community with every interaction being an opportunity to make a difference in lives of our students."
The Sooke School District Board of Education extends its gratitude to the staff, partner groups and stakeholder groups who contributed to the process, sharing insights and valuable feedback.
November 22, 2024
