Election Questionnaire
Why did you decide to run in the 2010 school board election?
I have served as a local school trustee since 1998. I belive that my re-election will help to ensure continuity and experienced leadership with the Board of Trustees. I have significant board experience, including:
- Currently the Chair of the Finance & Personnel Committee, which is responsible for preparing an annual budget of $329 million to meet the needs of the division’s 33,000 students.
- Chair of the Board (2006-2008)
- Vice-Chair of the board (2004-2006)
- Chair of the Policy/Program Committee (2003-2004)
- Chair of the Public Relations Committee (2001-2003)
- Board representative to the Manitoba Association of School Trustees (1999-2001)
- I have also served on the Building & Transportation, Inner City Advisory, Central Advisory, Children’s Heritage Fund, Pension, Student Advisory and Negotiation Committees.
What experience will you bring to complement your role as school trustee?
As a lawyer, I have experience in helping people to navigate their way through the legal system, and I practice primarily in the area of family law. I am a former youth health educator, and have direct experience working with youth. As the Chair of the Social Services Appeal Board, I understand board governance and can advocate for changes in provincial legislation.
What are the major issues you would like to stand for and why did you choose these issues?
Student Voice – I put forward the recommendation to create the Student Advisory Committee which brings together youth from all high schools in the division so that they can express their views to the trustees. I believe that youth need a voice in the decision making process.
Ensuring Safe Learning Environments in Schools - My plan for human rights training in the school division has made our schools safer for students, and a healthier workplace for teachers and support staff.
Managing tax dollars responsibly – I have supported and voted in favour of small, incremental tax increases to maintain necessary programs and services for students.
Is there anything in particular you would like to change in your school division? In your ward?
One area that I believe needs changing is the size of the wards in the Winnipeg School Division. I support a smaller number of wards. Smaller wards would allow schools and local communities to have stronger connections to their trustee representatives, and make running for office to become a school trustee a much more accessible process.
Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?
I have twelve years of experience as an elected school trustee and am passionate about public education. I will continue to work to improve our system and fight for the right of all students to receive high quality education and graduate from an adequately funded school system. I have a proven track record and the conviction to get things done.