Trina Ayling
School District 5 (SD5) Board of Education is pleased to announce the hiring of Jason Tichauer as the new Director of Student Learning. This position, previously held by Doug McPhee until his retirement last month, is responsible for the implementation, support, supervision and evaluation of educational programs in the District.
Board Chair Frank Lento said McPhee has offered his assistance transitioning Tichauer into the position of Director of Student Learning.
"Doug and Jason are very similar when it comes to their commitment to and passion for student success," Lento said. "While it's difficult to say goodbye to Doug, the Board feels very confident in Jason's ability to take up the torch."
Born in North Vancouver and raised in Squamish, B.C., Tichauer received both his Bachelor of Education and Master of Education (Leadership) at the University of Victoria. Currently the Principal of Mount Baker Secondary School (MBSS), Tichauer began his career teaching at Fort Nelson Secondary School in 1994. He joined SD5 eight years ago in 2006 as Principal of Sparwood Secondary School.
"I've enjoyed my time as principal of Mount Baker immensely. I've been so privileged to work and learn from such a collaborative group of people. Their dedication to improving student transitioning, commitment to professional development and genuine connection with our students is extraordinary."
According to Tichauer, despite how much he'll miss working with students on a daily basis he's excited to take on the challenges of the Director of Student Learning position. "The idea of taking my passion for raising student achievement and the programs that support it to a district-wide level is extremely rewarding".
Lento says Tichauer is a strong leader, especially when it comes to letting others take the reigns. "Jason understands that leadership is the forefront of twenty-first century learning. He recognizes leadership isn't about telling people what they should do but about letting people excel at what they do best."
Tichauer will continue in the capacity of principal at Mount Baker Secondary School until the end of June, at the same time assuming the duties of Director of Student Learning beginning April 1, 2014.
"The students of Mount Baker are very important to me. I want to be able to provide them with continuity to the end of the school year – and I want to be able to celebrate with this year's grad students whom I'm so proud to have served."
Outside of his work with SD5, Tichauer is involved with the Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club and is an active husband and father of two.