Greater Victoria School District leaders on medical leave amid governance allegations

Senior leadership at the Greater Victoria School District (SD61), including Superintendent Deb Whitten, are currently on medical leave. The staff issued a joint statement clarifying that they were not placed on leave by the board, addressing public speculation following a statement from the SD61 board.

The board, which was reinstated in May after being fired in 2025, raised concerns regarding potential governance issues. Specifically, the board alleged that key policies and procedures related to fiscal responsibility, accountability, and student safety were altered or rescinded without rationale during their absence. The board also raised questions about possible improper financial benefits and transactions occurring outside normal operating processes.

In response, the senior leadership team and two directors denied any knowledge of improper communications or wrongdoing. They noted that during the period when the elected board was removed from office, senior staff operated under the direction of a provincial official trustee. The staff further denied awareness of any improper financial transactions or benefits related to the board's termination or reinstatement.