Peace Wapiti Public School Division’s (PWPSD) Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Mr. Shawn O’Shea has been appointed as Superintendent of Schools, effective September 1, 2025.
Board Chair Lori Grant says the Board is enthusiastic about welcoming Mr. O’Shea to the role. “The Board would like to extend our congratulations to Mr. O’Shea. He brings a depth and breadth of knowledge and experience to this role.” Trustee Grant adds the Board is looking forward to a solid transition and bright future for PWPSD with Mr. O’Shea at the helm.
Since joining PWPSD as a teacher almost 20 years ago, Mr. O’Shea has evolved to Assistant Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and now Superintendent of Schools, but that’s not where his PWPSD journey began. Mr. O’Shea joined the division as a Grade 1 student at Spirit River Elementary School in the late ‘70s and says PWPSD is home. “I have been privileged to be part of our division for over four decades, and I couldn’t be more honoured to serve the staff, students and families of PWPSD in this new capacity. I am very grateful to the Board of Trustees for entrusting me with such an important role and am excited for our future together.” Mr. O’Shea lives and breathes the PWPSD mission of Educating Today for Success Tomorrow, by always supporting staff and students with their goals.
Mr. O’Shea says he has been very fortunate to work alongside excellent educators over the years. Ms. Wanda Gerard, former Principal of Peace Wapiti Academy, says he is a gifted educator, possessing the skills and abilities to work closely with students, families, staff and community stakeholders, providing invaluable support, guidance, and direction.
Mrs. Abby Stilwell, Principal of Whispering Ridge Community School, shares Ms. Gerard’s sentiment, saying, “Mr. O’Shea is a visionary leader who is deeply committed to driving positive change in education. He consistently works to improve outcomes for students while maintaining a strong focus on the well-being of staff, students, and the broader community he serves.” She adds one of his traits she most admires is his ability to approach challenging situations and conversations with both grace and compassion.
Mr. O’Shea is incredibly thankful for the community support of students and parents throughout his journey at Peace Wapiti Public School Division. “If it was not for the support of my school communities, I truly would not be here today.” Mr. O’Shea will replace outgoing Superintendent of Schools Mr. Bob Stewart who will retire at the end of August, following more than 30 years with PWPSD.