New Chair for the Halifax Regional School Board

Gary O'Hara is the new chair of the Halifax Regional School Board. Education Minister Jamie Muir made the announcement today, April 6.

"We're confident in Mr. O'Hara's ability to lead the Halifax Regional School Board forward and to work in the best interest of its students," said Mr. Muir.

Mr. O'Hara represents District 7 - Halifax West, Clayton Park and Fairview. He is chair of the board's Audit and Operations Committee and sits on many other committees including the By-laws Committee and the Supplementary Funding Committee. Mr. O'Hara is the owner/operator of a security and computer company. He is the father of four sons, the youngest is in elementary school.

"I'm looking forward to the opportunity," said Mr. O'Hara. "Each of our members brings a diverse skill set to the table and I believe we all have an interest in working together to improve our system for our students. As chair, I want to open the lines of communication with all education partners and be a good listener."

In accordance with the Education Act and the Halifax Regional School Board by-Laws, Cabinet was asked to appoint a new chair for the Halifax Regional School Board after the board was unable to do so by election on March 29.

Mr. O'Hara's appointment is effective immediately and will continue until internal board elections in October.

Wade Marshall resigned as chair of the Halifax Board on March 29.