COAST Mountains School District (CMSD) bid farewell to one of its senior staff at the end-of-year board meeting, with a presentation for director of aboriginal education Cheryl Sebastian who is moving on to a similar position in Kamloops in order to be closer to her family.
Terrace school trustee Roger Leclerc gave the presentation, which detailed her rise through the district, on behalf of the board of education trustees at the June 19 meeting.
Sebastian started her career with the district in 1980 at John Field Elementary in Hazelton, where she played a number of roles in the classroom – library, computers, Gitxsan Language & Culture.
She then left the district for six years to teach at Northbound Elementary and Kispiox community schools, before returning to John Field in 1990. Seven years later she became the vice-principal of student support services in Hazelton.
In March 2000 she completed her masters of education from UNBC while working full-time.
"I remember those days," quipped trustee Leclerc. "I was doing mine at the same time."
Sebastian was principal at John Field, and then Clarence Michiel in Terrace, now Suwilaawks Community School, before moving to the board office as district principal of aboriginal education, which was then redefined as director of aboriginal education.
"CMSD extends its sincere thanks to Cheryl's many contributions to learner success within the district with her years of service and dedication," he said.
Sebastian said she has treasured her time at the district.
"My years working in SD82 have been incredible and I will treasure the memories that I take with me," she said. "I have worked with an incredible team of educational leaders and community partners over the years and will certainly miss them."
Sebastian's replacement has not yet been announced.