School District 72 is mourning the sudden passing of longtime educator and school trustee David Harper.

Harper passed away Sunday, October 4, after dedicating more than three decades to public education in Campbell River.

He joined School District 72 as a teacher in 1991 and worked at Central, Sayward, Discovery Passage, Rockland and Georgia Park elementary schools, as well as Southgate Middle School.

Harper taught in both English and French Immersion programs and was widely respected for his commitment to students, families and public education.

He retired from teaching in 2021 before being elected to the Board of Education the following year, allowing him to continue advocating for students and families in a new role.

Harper also served as president of the Campbell River and District Teachers’ Association from 1997 to 2003 and again from 2014 until his retirement in 2021.

At the provincial level, he served on the B.C. Teachers’ Federation executive committee from 2001 to 2003.

The district says Harper played an important leadership role during significant periods for public education in British Columbia, including the restoration of class-size and composition language following a Supreme Court of Canada ruling and the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a trustee, he brought decades of experience to the board and continued to champion public education and student success.

"Dave devoted his career to supporting students, staff and public education," said Board Chair Craig Gillis.

"His contributions to our schools and community were considerable, and his passion for education will leave a lasting legacy."

The Board of Education and School District 72 are extending their deepest sympathies to Harper’s family and friends, as well as his former colleagues and the many students, staff members and community members whose lives he touched.