Chinook’s Edge administrators welcome incoming Superintendent Ryan Sawula

School and division administrators have had an opportunity to hear from the division’s incoming Superintendent, Ryan Sawula, who came for a part of the regular meeting of administrators on March 12.

Current Superintendent, Kurt Sacher, told the gathering that he has been impressed with Sawula so far, and encouraged staff to “have a positive mindset around transition. I see our organization as continuing to do great work under Ryan’s leadership.”

Board Chair, Holly Bilton, attended the same portion of the meeting and officially ‘pinned’ Sawula with a Chinook’s Edge “where students come first” pin. She acknowledged that there had only been one Superintendent transition in 27 years in our school division, and said “one reason for that is because Kurt has been such a great leader.” Administrators responded with a round of applause. Bilton wished Sacher “every success in the future.”

Also, Bilton was happy to officially welcome Sawula. “We are so pleased to have Ryan join Chinook’s Edge and look forward to the amazing things he will accomplish with the strong team already in place.”

“I’ve always been impressed with the culture in Chinook’s Edge,” said Sawula to the group, “and I wanted to be a part of that. I appreciate the focus on putting students first, and I am grateful to be joining a strong school division.”

“In the transition plan, which I would also call a continuity plan, I intend to get to know people and establish relationships. I want to listen first,” he said.

Sawula said he doesn’t have plans to make big changes. “I plan to take a collaborative approach, and work together to form any future plans. We will decide together where Chinook’s Edge goes, and use feedback loops to make sure we get it right.”

“Thank you for the warm welcome,” said Sawula to administrators. “I look forward to connecting with you soon.”

Sacher retires on May 30th. On June 2, 2025, Ryan Sawula becomes Superintendent.