Langley School District Superintendent Announces Retirement

September 15, 2021

Langley, BC – After more than 30 years with the Langley School District, Superintendent Gord Stewart announces he will be retiring in the new year.

Mr. Stewart has had a successful career in education. He started as a teacher, then moved on to positions as vice- principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and finally taking on the role of superintendent in 2016.

As superintendent, Mr. Stewart has accomplished many operational goals and refocused learning priorities. Under his leadership, the District has managed significant growth in the student population by opening a new secondary school, middle school, and elementary school.

During his time, the District has made and is continuing to make strides in the journeys of Truth and Reconciliation, diversity and inclusion, and its work in addressing LGBTQ+ and Anti-Racism education.

Mr. Stewart has contributed to the District’s progress in literacy, numeracy, and completion rates (graduation rates). He has been a strong advocate for ensuring equity among students and emphasizing work needed to reduce gaps in education.

“As a long-time educator in Langley, I have seen so many positive changes in our District. I am so fortunate to have been given the opportunity to mentor, work, and build relationships with so many students, staff, and families over the last three decades,” says Gord Stewart, Superintendent of Schools.

“I am so proud of all of our accomplishments we have achieved as a District, especially the work we do to ensure all students feel like they belong. I want to express my appreciation to our school communities, our partner groups, leaders from the local First Nations and ya:ỷəstəľ (Aboriginal Advisory Committee), and all stakeholders, who have assisted in inspiring all learners to reach their full potential and create a positive legacy for the future,” adds Mr. Stewart.

“On behalf of the Board of Education, we thank Gord Stewart for his leadership, dedication, and compassion,” says Rod Ross, Chair of the Langley Board of Education.

“Mr. Stewart is a true inspiration to our educators; making the time to connect with students, staff and families. He cares about students and always has them in the forefront of operational planning. We wish him all the best on his well-deserved retirement.”

Gord Stewart will remain as Superintendent until January 3, 2022, to assist with the transition.

The Board is pleased to announce Assistant Superintendent Mal Gill as the new Superintendent of the Langley School District beginning January 4, 2022. In the interim, the Board is also announcing Mr. Gill will become the Deputy Superintendent, effective immediately.

“The Board of Education is excited to have Mr. Gill lead the District. His vast experience in overseeing schools in growing regions, managing health and safety especially during the pandemic, and his leadership in diversity and inclusion in our District, gives us confidence our District will be in good hands,” explains Rod Ross, Chair of the Langley Board of Education.

“I am honoured to be guiding our District through this rapidly changing world. As a leader in the District, I look forward to continuing to work in Truth and Reconciliation that will foster an inclusive and nurturing culture in our schools. We will find ways to fuse innovative and tech-based learning opportunities with the curriculum as well as support the health, safety, and social emotional needs of all our students,” says Mal Gill, Assistant Superintendent.

Mal Gill has been an educator in the Langley School District for 18 years. He began his career as a teacher, thereafter, he took on roles as vice-principal, principal, and Assistant Superintendent in 2018.

For more information or to arrange an interview please contact:

Joanne Abshire

Communications Manager

jabshire@sd35.bc.ca

604-363-1671