Raman Brar. (Image Credit: SD33.)
Personnel announcements

Chilliwack School District announces changes in executive leadership team

Jun 25, 2026 | 5:30 AM

CHILLIWACK – The Chilliwack School District on Wednesday announced a series of changes to its executive team.

In a statement, the district said Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Simone Sangster will exit SD33 to join the University of the Fraser Valley as its associate vice-president of finance, effective August 2026.

To ensure leadership continuity and succession planning, Raman Brar will be appointed Secretary-Treasurer effective July 2026. He joined the district as assistant secretary-treasurer in November 2025. Prior to joining the district, he had significant leadership responsibilities with Fraser Health where he supported and implemented financial planning, reporting, governance, risk management, and strategic decision-making.

“Raman has shown the judgment, steadiness, and system-wide perspective needed for this role,” said Arul-pragasam. “He understands the importance of strong fiscal accountability. He also understands that accountability must be paired with communication, trust, responsiveness, and care for the people doing the work. His appointment provides continuity, stability, and a thoughtful progression of leadership within our system.”

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the district in this role,” said Brar. “I look forward to working with the Board of Education, senior leadership, schools, departments, and staff to support strong financial stewardship, effective operations, and student success.”

In welcoming Brar to his new position, SD33 took time to praise Sangster for her strong financial expertise, a commitment to fiscal responsibility, and a disciplined approach to financial stewardship during her three-year tenure with the district.

Dr. Simone Sangster.
Dr. Simone Sangster. (Image Credit: SD33.)

“Simone has provided important leadership in areas that are essential to the effective operation of a school district,” said Superintendent Rohan Arul-pragasam. “Her knowledge, commitment to fiscal responsibility, and support for financial planning and reporting have contributed to the district’s work over the past three years. We thank Simone for her service and wish her well as she moves into this new opportunity with UFV.”

Gordan Bridge, the district’s current manager of information technology, has been reclassified as SD33’s director of information technology. Bridge serves as the district’s key information officer and oversees IT strategy, infrastructure, cybersecurity, privacy, digital learning environments, business continuity and long-term technology planning.

“This change recognizes the complexity and system-wide impact of Gord’s leadership,” said Arul-pragasam. “Information technology is deeply connected to the daily operation of our schools. Gord’s expertise, steady judgment, and commitment to service ensure that staff are well supported and that students have safe, responsive, and effective learning environments.”