Winnipeg Election 2022

Arlene Reid - Winnipeg - 7

What got you into politics?

In 2016 I was asked to be a representative on the Manitoba Association for Parent Councils board to represent those with Inclusive needs. After speaking with John King an icon here in Elmwood, he suggested that I should run for the vacant seat on the WSD board, as there are not many School Trustees who can advocate for students with Inclusive needs in the province and defiantly none at WSD. So I decided to become that voice.

What experience will you bring to compliment your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee)?

As an advocate for students with Inclusive needs, I bring the 18 years of lived experience living with a child with Autism. Prior to becoming a Trustee in 2016, I was Chairperson for Parents of Autistic Children everywhere, a grassroots organization that provided supports and activities to families living with Autism. I also bring the 6 years of experience as Trustee for the WSD. Where I have sat on the Administrative Inclusive Education Committee for WSD since 2016 and has been the Provincial Representative on the Student Services for Inclusive Education Committee for the past 4 years. I had started the process to have the Special Education policy updated, as it has not been updated in over 15 years. I also have asked the division to conduct a survey amongst parents and those who work directly with students with disabilities regarding Block funding. This past winter I created an Inclusive Education Advisory Committee, a place for parents/caregivers to receive updates and have direct communication with the board of trustees. This committee will also serve as an opportunity for parents/caregivers to network with other parents facing the same journey.

What are some issues that you would like to stand for in your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee), and why are these issues important to you?

My top priorities include:

1.Continuing to be a strong advocate for Students with Learning Disabilities by ensuring funding and resources are allocated equitably to allow students with Inclusive Needs are successful

2. By addressing the increase of bullying in schools, by working with the Division and hopefully the Province to ensure a system is put in place to build safe and caring school communities. This includes empowering students, parents, educators and the community partners who support them to get help with challenges, report concerns to schools, and learn about complex issues facing students.

3. To work with the province and the city to make school bus transportation safer by having cameras installed on all buses (similar to photo radar) catch those who fail to stop for buses once their lights are flashing. This will not only help keep students safe, but could be a potential revenue stream for the division.

4. To work with the Division, teachers, staff and parents to address the learning challenges facing students in a post COVID world, including learning loss and behavioural challenges.