By Jen Wilkinson

April 2, 2026, Volume 7, Issue 15

Susan Jovanivic has stepped down from her role as a trustee with the District School Board of Niagara, representing Fort Erie and Port Colborne, citing ethical reasons for her resignation.

Jovanivic made the announcement in a social media post, noting that confidentiality prevents her from sharing further details.

“I have stepped down as DSBN Trustee for Fort Erie and Port Colborne for ethical reasons, and confidentiality prevents me from sharing further details,” she wrote. “The trust and support of both my communities have meant a great deal to me, and I have always taken that responsibility seriously. Please know this was a difficult decision and one that reflects my commitment to integrity and responsible public service.”

Jovanivic was elected in the 2022 municipal elections and has served in the role since then.

Following her resignation, the school board has officially declared the trustee position vacant. According to board procedure, the runner-up from the 2022 election, Owen Riel, will be contacted first regarding the opportunity to fill the seat. The matter is expected to be addressed at the board’s April 28 meeting.

If the vacancy is not filled through appointment, a by-election process will be considered, though regular municipal and school board elections are already scheduled for October 2026.

In a statement to the Fort Erie Observer, Jovanivic said she remains committed to supporting students and families, despite stepping away from her official role.

“I am still interested in helping students and parents navigate the educational system. I will just have to do it in a different capacity,” she said. “I am not going to drop off and disappear. I am still prepared to do good work, just on a different path.”

Jovanivic’s departure marks an unexpected change in local education leadership, as the board moves to ensure continued representation for the Fort Erie and Port Colborne communities.