An acting principal has been appointed at Ladysmith Secondary School, replacing Steve Thompson, who has suddenly departed and been listed on indefinite leave by Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District.
Margaret Olsen, who has been Vice Principal at Wellington Secondary School, stepped into her new role Thursday, Nov. 19. But it’s uncertain how long she will remain at LSS.
She is scheduled to take over as principal Cedar Secondary School in the second semester, sometime in February, as the district prepares for its reopening in 2016.
“The plan is that she is still going to be the principal at Cedar Secondary,” School district communications director Dale Burgos said.
He could not offer any information about Thompson’s sudden departure. Thompson has not been at LSS since Nov. 4, and no announcement was made to staff about the reason for absence.
Burgos noted that Ms. Olsen will be well-positioned at LSS to help with the transition of students who are planning on transferring to Cedar Secondary next September.
“Because of her appointment to Cedar, she will be able to assist in the education planning and the transition of students for the reopening at Cedar,” Burgos said. “She’s in a position where she can even start creating some of those relationships with some of the students.”
A recent survey indicated that of the 122 Cedar catchment students attending LSS, 77 plan on returning to Cedar when the school reopens; 34 intend to continue their education at LSS; and 11 are undecided.