After an extensive nation-wide search, the Board of Education has announced the appointment of Dr. Pius Ryan as Superintendent/CEO of the North Vancouver School District (NVSD), effective June 1, 2022.
Dr. Ryan is an accomplished leader, with more than 27 years’ experience in public schooling. Prior to coming to North Vancouver, Dr. Ryan served as the Director of Educational Services with the Surrey School District, where among his responsibilities, he conceived and oversaw the development of one of the first Welcome Centres in Canada.
Since becoming Assistant Superintendent for the North Vancouver School District in 2013, Dr. Ryan has led multiple initiatives, including the establishment of the school district’s Educational Priorities, Pillars of Educational Practice, and School Planning and Development Process. He has been central to setting the district-wide approach to Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health and Well-Being, and demonstrates a deep commitment to truth, healing and reconciliation.
Dr. Ryan’s work to conceptualize schools as vibrant learning communities has been foundational to his work in North Vancouver. He has been responsible for the development, implementation and ongoing refinement of the school district’s Framework for Enhancing Student Learning. Other key priorities in his work have and will continue to focus on Inclusive Education, Social Emotional Learning, Indigenous Education, Career Development, and Innovative Instruction.
At a provincial level, Pius has held significant roles both in the development of the Framework for Enhancing Student Learning Policy, and on the Provincial Assessment and Graduation Program Advisory Group, Provincial Steering Committee for Settlement and Immigration, Provincial Audit Advisory Committee, as well as supporting the Select Standing Committee for Youth Mental Health. In addition, he was the longest serving President of the B.C. Council of Administrators of Inclusive Support in Education (BC CAISE).
Dr. Ryan holds a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Policy from UBC, Master of Education in School Psychology from UBC, and Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Linguistics, as well as Bachelor of Education, both from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Pius and his wife reside in North Vancouver with their three children. His oldest son is studying Engineering at UBC, his daughter is finishing Grade 11 at Carson Graham Secondary, and his youngest son is finishing Grade 7 at Capilano Elementary. Pius is excited to move into his new role and to continue to serve in the community he calls home.
The Board of Education extends its gratitude to Ms. Sylvia Russell, who as Acting Superintendent, has worked closely and thoughtfully with the Board and senior leadership to ensure current priorities and progress on key initiatives are maintained as the recruitment for a new permanent superintendent was carried out. Sylvia will continue as Acting Superintendent until May 31.
Kulvir Mann, Chair, Board of Education, congratulates Dr. Pius Ryan for his appointment. “We look forward to working and learning together for the ongoing development and success of students and families in the community,” Mann says.
