Minister announces new chair for Central Transition Committee

Education Minister John Ottenheimer today announced a new chair for the Central Transition Committee. Bill Sceviour, current chair of the District 6 Lewisporte/Gander School Board and member of the Central Transition Committee will take over the duties from previously appointed Chair Chief Misel Joe.

"Chief Misel Joe has advised that upon direction from his physician he must withdraw as chair of the Central Transition Committee," said Minister Ottenheimer. "I certainly appreciate his circumstance, thank him for his participation and wish him the very best of health. I am confident he will continue to make great contributions to our province in the future.

"I am pleased that Bill Sceviour, has agreed to take on the role of chair. Mr. Sceviour has the experience, and demonstrated commitment to education, to proceed with the process. I am confident under his direction the transition for the central region will continue to go smoothly."

The minister is pleased that the work of transitional committees is moving forward in a positive and productive way and the transition process is proceeding on schedule. "Transitional committees for the western and eastern boards have met this week and we anticipate Mr. Sceviour will call his committee together very shortly. Interviews for director/CEOs are taking place and assistant director positions have been advertised," said the minister.

Media contact: Lynn Salter, Communications, (709) 729-0048

BACKGROUNDER

Bill Sceviour, Chair

Bill Sceviour, grew up in the Lewisporte area and achieved a Bachelor of Science from McGill University in Montreal. He enjoyed a career with Agriculture Canada that required living and working throughout the country. He returned to this province approximately 25 years ago with his family to enjoy a quieter life. However, Mr. Sceviour's interest in his community led to many volunteer activities. He has been actively involved in rural development, local service districts, recreation committees and school boards. He served as trustee and chair of the Notre Dame Integrated School Board, the school board transition team in 1996, and the District 6 Lewisporte/Gander School Board of which he is currently chair and is a member of the Central Transition Committee. Mr. Sceviour is a partner in Flowers By Design in Lewisporte and is a representative for Munn Insurance.

2004 05 20                                         9:35 a.m.