Winnipeg Election 2022

Leela Schreyer Garrity - St. James - Assiniboia - East Ward

What got you into politics?

I do not necessarily feel that school trustee is considered getting into “politics” I do not belong to a political party or answer to one. I consider school trustees as governing bodies, holding our province, teachers, and ultimately the school division accountable for our public education system.
My journey to become a School Trustee comes from my desire to help others and work within the community. It began over the last few years where I’ve been lucky enough to become part of the phenomenal team at Brematson disability. There I have been helping persons with disabilities overcome their benefit denials. during this time, I’ve also had the great opportunity to become part of the Board of Directors at the early childhood Centre called Discovery Children’s Center. After joining DCC 8 years ago, I have held many positions of governance. These two life experiences happening in tandem has deepened my understanding of the importance of both early years education and early intervention when considering learning disabilities, assessments and accommodations.

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

I have held many roles where governance is concerned. While studying Architecture at the University of Manitoba I held committee seats in the local campus residences, when in Africa opening and managing medical clinics I was one of the founders and grant writers for a socio economic development non- profit for a group of townships. I also currently sit on the council at my local community centre and have served on the board of my children’s daycare for 8 years. I feel these experiences paired with my many years in management will provide the mixed skills necessary for the school trustee position. I will strive to make great impact on our school division. I know change can take time and dedication and I am motivated to see this through.

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 platform revolves around 1. Disability inclusion, 2. Community Involvement and 3. School safety. As a disability advocate in my profession I see some areas where our school division can improve with their inclusion and as a parent I have passion to see school safety and community involvement front and centre on our new strategic plan. I thankfully also have had experience with fiscal responsibilities in management and understand the importance of this role as well. I believe there is value to studying the demographics of our community, supporting our children in our schools, listening to our teachers and discussing with all families.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I believe our school division is spectacular and am grateful my children are enrolled here (my husband also graduated from this division). I do feel many beneficial programs are in place regarding inclusion and safety, however,  some need updates to see them running more smoothly. Communication to and from the community is certain to be the key to this success! Anyone who knows me can attest to my passion to see policies and procedures improved. Especially when it positively impacts a child.

“ Statistics Canada reports that 3.2% of Canadian children have a learning disability – That’s the equivalent of one child in every school bus full of children. Statistics Canada also reports that as children make the transition from home to school the number diagnosed with a learning disability grows by nearly 25%. These transition years are a key time during which we need to assess children and begin accommodating those with learning disabilities so they can reach their full potential.”

If we assess and assist children in their early years they can learn coping mechanisms and accommodations to help them not only through their education but through their lives.