Scott Miller appointed director of education at WRDSB

Miller was put into the role on an interim basis back in December when the school board announced the sudden departure of former director jeewan chanicka. (Courtesy: WRDSB)

The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) has appointed Scott Miller as its new director of education.

Miller was put into the role on an interim basis back in December when the school board announced the sudden departure of former director jeewan chanicka.

No explanation has been provided for his exit.

Under chanicka’s leadership, the board faced questions about its focus on equity as well as a lack of communication and transparency around decision-making.

Miller, a WRDSB graduate, began his career with the board in 1995 and has held various roles, including teacher, principal, superintendent, and associate director overseeing business services, student achievement, and well-being.

“It is an honour to be appointed as the Director of Education for the WRDSB,” Miller said in a media release. “Throughout my almost thirty-year career in the WRDSB I have had the privilege of working with incredible staff, parents, families and community partners to help students encounter success and open pathways to their futures.”

Calls for public consultation on WRDSB’s direction

Miller’s appointment comes amid calls for greater transparency and public input on WRDSB’s strategic direction.

Trustees Carla Johnson and Cindy Watson have proposed public consultations on the board’s priorities, citing community concerns and the need for a review.

Johnson is pushing for a broad consultation process beginning in spring 2025, while Watson is calling for a town hall meeting before March 2025 to address community concerns about the board’s learning agenda.

These motions will be debated at a future board meeting.

Editor’s note: chanicka intentionally does not capitalize his name