1. Please provide a short biography. Why have you chosen to run for trustee?
It seems education has always been part of who I am. Throughout my years of teaching, I have been dedicated to fostering environments where students can flourish, educators are supported, and communities are engaged. Strong public education is the cornerstone of a thriving society, and I am eager to contribute my experience and skills to help shape a brighter future for all students.
My passion for education runs deep, and I bring a wealth of educational expertise to the table. I obtained a B.ed. in 1986 (UVic) and a M.ed. in 2020 (U of L), specializing in curriculum and assessment. I have taught grades 2 through 12 and some college classes for 33 years. I retired from full time teaching in 2020 and since 2023, I have been back subbing in the district to stay current and involved. I continue to enrol and succeed in new classes myself. Last year, for example, I studied the philosophy of political science, and in prior years, I have taken classes in everything from sewing and painting to computer software. To say I am a lifelong learner is an understatement. I truly believe learning is a gift, and I hope to help facilitate that for others.
I also possess excellent leadership skills as demonstrated while serving as president of a local organization, in addition to hands-on experience in governance from my tenure as commissioner, vice-chair, and AAPG Rep with the Medicine Hat Police Commission. I am confident that these attributes will allow me to make meaningful and significant contributions as a member of the board.
My approach to making decisions on policies I support is grounded in collaboration, evidence-based decision making, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
2. What are your top three priorities for your division, and how would you work to meet those needs?
a. My first priority would be to learn all about the role of trustee, attend all the training sessions available, and re-read the board highlights for the last school year.
b. Secondly, I would listen and learn all I can about the school district and the intricacies of the system from my fellow board members, administrators, parents, teachers, and all other stakeholders. Although I have firsthand knowledge and experience as a teacher in the district, it is important to truly listen and learn from all perspectives. Once I have listened, I would listen some more and reflect on what I have learned and then listen some more. Only then, more fully equipped with all the necessary knowledge, would I attempt to influence decision making on policies in the district.
c. My third top priority would be to influence my fellow board members and school district No. 76 to survey the teachers. No one knows and understands better what is needed in their classrooms to facilitate the best possible learning environment and outcomes, than teachers on the front line. Often, these voices are overlooked or go unheard. It’s a familiar story: “Too many children, too many learning needs, too many expectations, too little time. Please don’t presume what I need. Just ask me.”
I want to ask. I want to listen. I want to learn. I want to help.
3. How would you aim to attract and retain students within your division?
If I was so honoured to be elected to the public school board, I would work alongside my fellow trustees to advocate for the best practices for students in our district to attract and maintain students. Firstly, I would advocate to continue to build relationships with local businesses and organizations to sponsor academic programs and extracurricular activities. Collaborative initiatives can enhance resources available to students and make the schools more attractive. We could continue to help support and organize open houses, workshops, and family nights at schools to encourage community involvement and showcase student achievements. Such events can strengthen the connection between families and schools.
As a trustee, I would also advocate to the provincial government for adequate funding for our public education system. It is shameful that Alberta invests less in education than all other provinces in Canada, especially given that we are one of the richest. I would also advocate for a curriculum that is innovative, inclusive, and relevant which incorporates subjects such as technology, arts, and life skills to cater to diverse interests, enhancing student engagement and academic performance. There is so much opportunity to create partnerships with organizations like the Medicine Hat Police Service, The Medicine Hat College, businesses, and trades. By offering programs and classes in our schools that would give students a head start in obtaining credits for their future career programs would do much to attract and retain students.
It is also important to invest in professional development opportunities for educators, enabling them to implement new teaching strategies and tools. Empowered teachers can inspire students and improve educational outcomes. By using creative ideas, teachers can have ample opportunities to hone their skills and craft through mentorship programs and selected training opportunities.
We already provide a rich variety of extracurricular programs, including sports, arts, and clubs, to cater to diverse interests and talents. I support programs that foster a sense of belonging and encourage student retention.
We could also continue to leverage social media platforms to communicate school achievements, updates, and events. A well-maintained website with resources for parents and students can enhance transparency and participation.
We should continue to promote an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates cultural differences. Programs that highlight diversity can make schools more welcoming to all families.
Finally, recognizing the importance of mental health by implementing programs that support students’ emotional and social well-being would also help to retain students in our district. I would advocate to provide access to counsellors and resources that promote resilience and coping skills.
