Four short years
ago, I decided to run for a Director position on the Board of the BC
Principals’ & Vice-Principals’ Association. I had always been involved with
the BCPVPA in different ways, but this was an opportunity to understand more
deeply the work of the Association and to experience governance and advocacy
from another perspective. The idea of serving on a Board intrigued me, and I
was curious about how collective leadership could shape and support the work of
our members in schools and districts across the province.
Running for
election can be both thrilling and heartbreaking. You are asked to step into a
public space with vulnerability, courage, and hope. You are opening yourself up
to the opinions and decisions of colleagues, with a desire to contribute in a
meaningful way. It is deeply human work.
Over the past few
weeks, that process has unfolded again within our Association. Members from
across the province chose to put their names forward and stand for election.
Each candidate did so with the same fundamental goal: to serve colleagues and
strengthen public education in communities across British Columbia.
Our members lead
in every imaginable context: from remote and rural communities to large urban
districts, and from small island schools to secondary schools serving more than
2,000 students; from tight-knit communities where everyone knows one another,
to complex systems with layered infrastructures and competing demands. While
the contexts may differ, the purpose remains remarkably consistent. Every
school is a hub of community, and every leader is working to improve outcomes
and experiences for students.
Last night, our
elections closed. I want to thank every single candidate, and extend sincere
congratulations to those who were elected to serve on the 2026–2027 BCPVPA
Board. Democracy within an Association
only works when people are willing to step forward and serve something larger
than themselves.
For those who were
not elected this time, I encourage you not to step away from the work. Take
time to reflect, regroup, and then consider stepping forward again in the
future. Join a committee. Become a facilitator. Volunteer your voice and
expertise in areas where you can support colleagues. If you have not yet become
involved with your local Chapter executive, consider doing so. Leadership
within the Association takes many forms, and all of it matters.
The work you do in
your schools each and every day is profound. You carry the hopes, concerns, and
complexities of students, families, staff, and communities. You implement
initiatives while thoughtfully balancing the unique needs and contexts of your
schools. It is not easy work, but it is deeply important work.
Every decision
made at the Board table is rooted in supporting our members. That
responsibility is never lost on those privileged to serve.
To every candidate
who ran in this election, thank you for your courage, your willingness to
serve, and your belief in the collective work of this Association.
Onwards,
Shannon
Dr. Shannon Behan
sbehan@bcpvpa.bc.ca