Image: M. Vanden Bosch / PML / Dr. Simone Sangster has been appointed as the next secretary-treasurer for SD33, the school district announced Friday (Oct. 21).
SD33 Secretary-Treasurer

Harvard University graduate Dr. Simone Sangster named new SD33 secretary-treasurer

Oct 21, 2022 | 4:06 PM

CHILLIWACK — A Harvard University graduate has been named the next secretary-treasurer of SD33.

The Chilliwack Board of Education announced Friday (Oct. 21) that Dr. Simone Sangster has been appointed secretary-treasurer, effective January 1, 2023.

Dr. Sangster is currently the Assistant School Superintendent of Finance for Bellingham Public Schools. Simone has a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of New South Wales in Australia, a Master of Education and a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from Harvard University.

Dr. Sangster is a member of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia and has experience working for KPMG both in Vancouver and Sydney. Simone brings a wide variety of financial and education skills and experiences to her new role in Chilliwack. Simone has 15 years of experience working in school districts similar or larger in size to the Chilliwack school district as an assistant school superintendent of finance, or chief financial officer, and has extensive experience working as a financial consultant and accountant. Her experience as a Charted Professional Accountant, in addition to her Doctorate degree in education, will assist the district leadership team as they continue to enhance their understanding of the alignment of resources with educational objectives as the district continues to implement the Board’s strategic vision.

Simone and her husband Raegen are avid gardeners and animal lovers who have lived in Whatcom County for about eight years on a 5-acre plot with their sheep and dogs. They look forward to returning to Canada and the beautiful Fraser Valley.

Dr. Sangster noted, “I am excited to join the Chilliwack team, and I am passionate about the power of education. I bring with me an understanding of how the work of everyone in the system is connected to student learning. As a continuous learner, I am looking forward to learning about Chilliwack, meeting the team, and learning about the work and the educational programs across the district.”

Superintendent Rohan Arul-pragasam stated, “In selecting Dr. Simone Sangster as our Secretary Treasurer, our Board of Education and I recognize the many skills and attributes that Simone brings to this key role in our school district. She is a strategic thinker who is well-versed in overseeing long-term and sustainable financial and business planning to successfully support achieving the goals of the Board’s strategic plan. She has a strong reputation for fiscal responsibility and sound decision-making while developing strong and caring relationships. Her passion, personal qualities and leadership skills will continue to support Chilliwack School District in building an organizational culture that thrives.”

The Board of Education acknowledged its staff, administrators and partners who provided input into the recruitment process, including building the candidate profile and participating in the interviews. The contributions provided were valuable, and the Board wishes to thank each participant for their time and valuable input.