(BlackburnNews.com file photo by Aaron Hall)(BlackburnNews.com file photo by Aaron Hall)
Sarnia

UPDATED: School boards choose chairs, vice chairs

John Van Heck has been acclaimed chair of the St. Clair Catholic District School Board.

Van Heck, who has been a Catholic trustee since 2006, has held the post for the past three years.

Mat Roop was elected vice chair. He served as a Catholic trustee for the former Lambton County Roman Catholic Separate School Board from 1984 to 1986. He retired from the current board after 22 years as a manager in facility services.

Van Heck said the board has a couple of very busy years ahead of them.

"With two new school builds approved in Chatham, and one in Sarnia, it's an exciting time," said Van Heck. "I look forward to working with my fellow trustees and senior administration as we move these projects forward."

Two new trustees were also sworn in at Tuesday night's inaugural meeting.

Jennifer McCann was elected in Sarnia and Point Edward in the October municipal election. David Argenti was elected in Chatham.

Returning to the board are trustees Carol Bryden, Brenda Rumble, Linda Ward, and Van Heck and Roop.

Jane Bryce has been elected chair of the Lambton Kent District School Board.

Bryce is the trustee representing Lambton Shores, Plympton-Wyoming, and Warwick Township.

“I look forward to leading the board as we welcome new trustees and support administration through the transition in leadership during the year ahead,” said Bryce. “We will continue to demonstrate effective governance that is focused on ensuring the LKDSB is well positioned to promote students’ success and well-being.”

Lambton Kent District School Board Director Jim Costello, who has held the position since 2010, will retire next July after 33 years in education.

Randy Campbell of East, South & West Kent was named vice-chair at Tuesday night's annual organizational board meeting.

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