The School District 5 (SD5) Board of Trustees accepted “with regret” the retirement of Superintendent Bill Gook at Tuesday’s Board meeting in Cranbrook.
“Bill’s been a great asset to the District,” says Board Chair Frank Lento. “He’s helped us weather some pretty challenging times.”
Gook began teaching in 1974 and has taught at the elementary, middle and secondary levels before advancing into administration. He became Assistant Superintendent of SD5 in 2002. In 2007, following the retirement of Ron Allen, Gook became Superintendent.
“It hasn’t always been easy. Over the years Boards have had to contend with declining enrolment, funding shortfalls and most recently teacher job action,” says Gook. “But we’ve also been recognized for some really great initiatives as well.”
During Gook’s term as Superintendent the District has introduced programs like Sound Connections, a provincially recognized language program for primary students. Partnerships with both the College of the Rockies and local industry have also provided dual credit and trade experience options for students of SD5.
“I feel very fortunate to have spent the last 10 years of my public education career in such a fine school district,” says Gook. “I’ve worked with and learned from many great people in our District and in the communities we serve.”
According to Lento the position of superintendent will be posted both internally and externally to the District. “We plan to interview potential candidates in July and expect to have a new superintendent in place by August.”
Gook’s last day with the District is September 30.