Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the Surrey Principals and Vice-Principals Association, and what a visit it was! The Surrey School District (SD36) is a vast and dynamic district, serving approximately 83,259 students across its 105 elementary and 21 secondary schools. It is a well-oiled machine: a system that is both structured and adaptable, serving one of the most diverse student populations in the province.
The district’s administrative operations are led by Superintendent/CEO Mark Pearmain, who is supported by a dedicated and forward-thinking team of educational leaders. The six Assistant Superintendents each oversee a specific geographic zone within the large district, and this zonal approach allows for tailored strategies to address the unique needs of each community.
To foster leadership development and ensure continuous improvement, the district aligns with a "Leading by Design" framework. This initiative focuses on building professional capacity throughout the entire system. System goals aim to cultivate leadership qualities that align with the district's vision of preparing learners to think creatively and critically, communicate skillfully, and demonstrate care for self and others.
During my visit, I spent time at several schools and witnessed firsthand the outstanding work being done by Surrey’s leaders. My first stop was Cambridge Elementary, a vibrant K-7 school led by the dynamo team of Principal Jennifer Demuynck and Vice-Principal Rob Moxness. Serving approximately 768 students, Cambridge Elementary is known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. The first thing you see upon entering are 14 brilliant flags that represent the different countries of the school’s students.
We travelled next to Sullivan Heights Secondary, a public high school with just over 1,900 students from grades 8 to 12. The administrative team is led by Principal Nikolas Kirincic and supported by Vice-Principals Christopher Kelly, Nicola Racanelli, and Zoel Thibault. Established in 2000, Sullivan Heights experienced a significant expansion in September 2022 to accommodate its growing student population, including new educational spaces, classrooms, and studios, and a new gymnasium and outdoor basketball court.
Next on my tour was Brookside Elementary, a beautiful K-7 school led by Principal Kerry Schwab. Kerry shared with me the importance of the school’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and responsible citizenship among its students.
Beaver Creek Elementary, led by Principal Paul Marsden, a BCPVPA Board Director, and Vice-Principal Martha Pomonis, serves approximately 475 students across 22 divisions, supported by a staff of 75. The school is dedicated to the continual improvement of academic outcomes for students, and the diverse student population makes it a rich place to learn and grow.
What stood out most during my visit to the Surrey School District was the deep commitment to students, the strong sense of community, and the innovative programs that reflect the district’s rich multicultural fabric. Surrey is a place where diversity is not only celebrated, it is embedded in daily learning. Whether through language programs, cultural events, or tailored student supports, the district ensures that every child feels a sense of belonging and opportunity.
From early learning to secondary school transition programs, leadership development, and mental health initiatives, Surrey continues to set a high standard in education. The collaboration between school leaders, staff, and families is evident in its thriving school communities.
I am so grateful to the Surrey Principals and Vice-Principals Association for their invitation to visit, for their warm welcome, and for the incredible work they do each day. Surrey is a district that blends expertise with enthusiasm, structure with spontaneity, and leadership with heart. I look forward to seeing how their innovative spirit continues to shape the future of education.