SD33 appoints seasoned educator as principal of new east side elementary school in Chilliwack

CHILLIWACK – The Chilliwack School District announced Wednesday that a seasoned educator with over 30 years of experience working for SD33 has been appointed principal of the new east side elementary school in Rosedale.

According to a news release, Iain Gardner, the current principal at École Cheam Elementary, will lead the new elementary school on McGrath Road ahead of its projected opening in fall 2027.  

SD33 says Gardner has worked in the district for over 30 years. He served as a French Immersion teacher and has been a strong advocate for the Early French Immersion program since it opened at École Cheam Elementary in 2014. Gardner has previously worked as a vice principal at Little Mountain Elementary, FG Leary Fine Arts Elementary and Strathcona Elementary.

Gardner holds a master’s degree in educational leadership from City University, a diploma in education from McGill University, and a bachelor’s degree from Concordia University.

“Iain’s deep commitment to students, families, and staff at École Cheam Elementary has been evident throughout his leadership,” said superintendent Rohan Arul-pragasam. “His understanding of the community, combined with his steady and thoughtful approach, will be invaluable as we move through this transition together.”

Gardner says he’s been proud to serve in his current role and admits he was a little bit sad upon hearing the news.

“I have been very proud to serve as principal at École Cheam Elementary these many years, and I am grateful to help make this transition with staff, students and families,” said Gardner. “My initial reaction to the idea that we’d be moving was one of sadness. But I am reminded every day, by all the amazing people I interact with, that our school is more than a building or location, it is a community with connections and traditions.”

The K-5 east side elementary school will open in September 2027 and will welcome a portion of elementary students from École Cheam Elementary, along with elementary students from Rosedale Traditional Community School and the District Early French Immersion program. SD33 says Gardner will work closely with district and school teams during the 2026-2027 school year to support transition plans for the new school.