14.9°C Not observed 
After 32 years in service in public education, Supt. Pat Pearce has announced her retirement as of July 31, 2010.
Pearce began her career in Smithers as a physical education teacher and served as a leader in alternate, secondary and elementary education in the Bulkley Valley before accepting her five-year tenure as superintendent of education in Gold Trail.
Currently, Pearce is on an educational leave, where she will pursue her passion forsupporting students in rural and aboriginal communities.
Interim chair of the Gold Trail School District (School District 74), Valerie Adrian notes, “Pat has led the district in improving classroom instruction and in seeing the board through the repayment of debt which was incurred over seven years ago.
"With Pat’s imminent retirement on July 31, 2010, and understanding her wish to pursue her passion for aboriginal education, the board felt that accepting her request would show appreciation for the leadership she has provided while allowing the board time to discuss the superintendent position and search process.”
In the interim, Alison Sidow, the current director of instruction, has accepted the role of acting superintendent.
Trustee Adrian states “Alison proved her leadership ability when she stepped in as acting superintendent while Supt. Pearce was seconded to the (education) ministry rural schools project.
"The board appreciates her willingness to assist the board through this period of transition.”
