Veteran educator retires

After nearly three decades with School District 23 Assistant Superintendent Dr. Rick Oliver is retiring.

“We are all grateful to Dr. Oliver for his exemplary leadership and years of service to our District,” Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools and CEO said. “Rick is a kind, innovative, thoughtful leader and his dedication to students shows throughout his career as a teacher, a principal, at the Ministry of Education and as an assistant superintendent.”

Oliver’s career spanned 28 years beginning as a teacher at Rutland Secondary School (RSS) in 1993.

He was the vice-principal at Mount Boucherie Senior Secondary (1995-1999), and served as principal at École Dr. Knox Middle School (1999-2001) and Constable Neil Bruce Middle School (2001-2004), before returning to RSS as principal (2004-2008).

He was appointed director of instruction for the district and moved to his current position as assistant superintendent in July of 2016, where his portfolio included the West Kelowna Family of Schools, the Central Family of Schools, and International Education.

Some of his career highlights include being named one of Canada’s outstanding principals, representing Central Okanagan schools around the globe as director of international education and establishing the district’s Welcome Center to support new immigrant and refugee families.

“Over the years Rick has made many connections throughout the communities he served,” Moyra Baxter, chairperson of the Board of Education, said. “Both his leadership and his warm personality will be missed by all trustees.”

Oliver will officially retire on June 30, 2021.