Wayne Hunter hopes to return to his education roots.
The current Saanich councillor, who is also a former Central Saanich councillor and mayor, announced this week he'll step down from municipal politics to run for the Saanich School Board.
"After 15 years in municipal politics, and six really good years in Saanich … I think i can help the Saanich district in their move to becoming a more creative and well-run school district," Hunter said.
The 67-year-old worked in the school district for nearly 28 years, as a teacher and principal. He now has a five-year-old daughter going through District 63's public education system and he hopes to be able to bring his experiences in schools and politics to help improve the board there.
"I believe I have some good ideas to bring forward with regards to moving forward in the Saanich area," he said. "We're moving into a much different model of education. … We have to focus a lot more on where we're going to go in education, and how we're going to make those adjustments in our schools to make sure our kids stay at the forefront of our country."
Hunter's announcement was made simultaneously alongside former two-term councillor Nichola Wade, who says she'll run once again – after taking six years off from politics – for Saanich council.
"I knew that Saanich was in good hands. With Wayne moving on, however, I know that I have much to contribute," she said in a press release.
All other councillors, as well as the mayor, have confirmed they will seek re-election in November, save for Coun. Leif Wergeland, who says he'll make a decision on his political future by the end of August.
Municipal elections happen Nov. 19. Voters will also cast their ballot for school board trustees at the same time.
kslavin@saanichnews.com