The Sooke School District has hired a new secretary-treasurer for the district, which extends from Colwood to Port Renfrew.
Brian Jonker will replace Harold Cull, who is retiring Dec. 30 after 12 years with what is now the fastest-growing school district in B.C.
Jonker most recently served as executive director of the Ministry of Transportation’s marine branch, the district said in a statement.
He also held key roles in the Education Ministry, where he served as executive director of independent schools and international education.
“His wealth of experience in governance, strategic planning and capital-project management will be invaluable as we continue to grow and serve our communities,” said superintendent Paul Block.
Jonker’s duties will include overseeing financial operations and strategic planning, the district said.
Sooke district was deemed the fastest-growing in the province in October, when its increase in student population for 2024-25 was pegged at 4.3 per cent — including a seven per cent jump at the secondary-school level.
Belmont and Royal Bay Secondaries — both opened in 2015 — are exceeding their capacity. A 12-acre piece of land near Costco has been purchased for another secondary school planned for 2,000 students.
The district’s student population has increased by 40 per cent over the past 15 years, largely because of growth in areas like Langford and Colwood.
