The Abbotsford board of education has new, but familiar, faces at its helm.
Trustee Cindy Schafer was elected chair for the coming year at the board's inaugural meeting on Tuesday. She previously held the position from 2008 to 2011.
Trustee John Sutherland (left), who served as chair for the past year, was elected vice-chair.
The terms are each for one year.
Schafer recounted some of the highlights for the board and district of the past year and thanked trustees and senior management for their work and achievements.
She acknowledged that the teachers' strike in 2011-2012 caused some concern and disruption in schools.
Schafer also pointed to the regular meetings trustees have with the district youth council – known as "YC34" – as a highlight and a useful time for board members.
A major focus for the board has been, and will continue to be, the ongoing implementation of the board’s strategic plan.
“As far as facilities work, our IT road map was one of the key undertakings over the past year,” Schafer said.
She also noted the newest facility in the district – the new Abbotsford Senior Secondary, together with Sweeney Neighbourhood Centre and Abbotsford Community Library – as assets.
Committee assignments and school liaisons will be announced next Tuesday (Dec. 11) at the board’s regular public meeting.