A second top administrator is moving on from the re-invigorating New Westminster school district this year.
Al Balanuik, assistant superintendent-turned secretary-treasurer, retired from the district as of Dec. 1, marking the departure of yet-another longtime senior staffer.
"He made the decision, after many years in education, to retire," superintendent John Gaiptman told The Record. "For 12 years, he has worked really hard (in New Westminster). He leaves behind appreciative colleagues and friends."
Earlier this year, former superintendent John Woudzia left the district to start a new job at Vancouver Community College. Gaiptman took over the district from Woudzia in February and many have praised his work in the district including his ability to bring peace to the once-divided school board and his communication skills in general.
In Balanuik's absence, recently hired assistant secretary-treasurer Kevin Lorenz, who came from the Vernon school district, is moving up the ladder to acting secretary-treasurer. Longtime district staffer Janet Grant is acting assistant superintendent. Neither will be permanently hired in those respective positions until they have official board approval, Gaiptman said.
As well, the district hired James Pocher, a former assistant secretary treasurer with the Okanagan Similkameen school district, for the role of director of finance.
"We have very capable people in finance, and I am feeling very confident," Gapitman told The Record.
The district had struggled financially for the past decade, hitting a major snag in 2012, when it revealed a multimillion-dollar surprise deficit. Then secretary-treasurer eventually left the district with a $195,320 severance package after four years of employment.
Balanuik received a $13,000 raise when he took over the dual role of assistant superintendent and secretary-treasurer, bumping his salary from $132,033 to $145,000 annually. Balanuik will not receive a severance package from the New Westminster school district, Gaiptman said.
