Known for his fiery opinions and staying power, former school trustee Michael Ewen surprised everyone when he announced he wouldn’t seek re-election this year after serving 39 years on the New Westminster school board.
Ewen was first elected to the board when he was just 25 years old. It was 1979 and the school district had only eight elementary schools and one high school and was suffering from declining enrolment.
During his tenure, Ewen helped transform this little district into one of the most thriving districts in the province. He and his fellow trustees (he’s worked with dozens in case you were wondering) didn’t always get along but that never bothered Ewen.
He admits not everyone liked him, one trustee went so far as to call him the “spawn of the devil,” he told the Record back in August.
“I've generated a lot of negativity over the years, and a lot of support, too, but a lot of negativity because people look at one person and go, ‘You know that Michael Ewen,’” he said.
But he can't help it. “I can be combative,” he admitted. “I’m passionate about kids and learning and providing support for their learning. I’m passionate about making sure teachers and support staff have the tools to do the jobs. I don't think we should ever apologize for being passionate.”
Congratulations on your retirement Michael.
