Former School District 46 director of finance John Pritchard has been selected as the district's new secretary-treasurer.
Previously employed by the Surrey School District, Pritchard has been an employee of School District 46 for the past 15 years, working as an accountant, acting secretary-treasurer and director of finance. Three years ago, Pritchard took on the role of acting secretary-treasurer for eight months before a replacement was appointed. "I've quite enjoyed working with the board and the schools in this district," Pritchard said. "I'm glad this opportunity came up."
Pritchard has always been on the financial side of the school board's operations but says he is interested to learn more of the educational matters. He has also observed the student population growth over the years. "When I started working here, there were 2,900 students," Pritchard said. "Today there are approximately 4,017. We are definitely growing."
School board chair Joe Brooks said the board met on Tuesday to discuss which candidates within the district would make a good secretary-treasurer. Brooks said Pritchard will bring a lot to the district, given his previous position as acting secretary-treasurer and his good relationship with the schools.
Pritchard will replace current secretary-treasurer Kelly Grittner who announced last week his intention of stepping down from the position effective Jan. 31. Grittner will remain employed by SD46 until Oct. 24 to help ensure a smooth transition with the new secretary-treasurer. He will also continue to oversee the Chatelech Secondary School expansion project to ensure it is completed on time and on budget. Brooks said Pritchard's thorough knowledge of all facets of the district's operations, including budget, capital planning, maintenance, facilities, contracts and community schools, will ensure a smooth transition when Grittner retires.
"We've seen him in operation before," Brooks said. "I'm confident he will do a good job."
