SD68 announced the retirement of Supt. Scott Saywell. He was hired to the position in 2018 and was a longtime district employee and former student. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

retiring

Superintendent of Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools retires

May 31, 2024 | 1:15 PM

NANAIMO — Following a long career as a teacher and administrator with the Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools (NLPS), its top official is calling it a career.

NLPS announced on Friday, May 31 that Supt. Scott Saywell has decided to retire.

He had been on an unspecified leave of absence from the district for about six months.

“The board really appreciates the contributions that Scott has made to the district and students in our district. There’s no doubt he’s done a lot of good work, including work on Truth and reconciliation and advancing our understanding of that,” NLPS board chair Greg Keller told NanaimoNewsNOW.

Saywell was hired as the district’s superintendent in 2018 after previously serving as deputy Supt.

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He spent 30 years working for the district as a teacher and vice principal at several schools.

Saywell graduated from Nanaimo District Secondary School in 1981.

Keller said Saywell made lasting contributions.

“He will leave a lasting mark on the district for advocating for students and we will miss him for that,” said Keller.

NLPS board of trustees is now tasked with finding a permanent replacement for Saywell.

“We will be looking to fill the position through a competitive process. The board will be initiating that process shortly,” Keller confirmed.

Laura Tait is currently serving as the acting Supt. role for NLPS.

In a statement to the NLPS board of trustees, Saywell commended staff for their dedication to ensuring every student in the district has the opportunity to succeed.

“As I reflect on my time in NLPS, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students, gratitude for the support of our staff, and gratitude for the trust and confidence that you have placed in me to lead this district,” Saywell stated.

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Ian.holmes@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes