Trustee candidate brings experience in Catholic education to the table
By Dale Woodard on July 31, 2021.
Helping students transition back into a school environment following the pandemic and helping Catholic school students to understand their options are keys for Frances Cote as she runs for a school trustee spot.Cote recently threw her hat in the ring for the Ward 1 school trustee position with Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, bringing ample education and church experience to her campaign.
“I’ve represented Coaldale over the last two terms and I had the opportunity thLis year to serve as board chair and I look forward to continuing this role,” said Cote.
“I’ve volunteered as the sacramental prep. So I realize how important it is for Catholic education and for these children to enjoy their sacraments. The seat came open, so I thought I would throw my hat in there.”
Cote said Coaldale students are at an advantage as far as their educational options.
“They have a choice in education. Our students can continue on with their Catholic education after Grade 9 at Catholic Central High School,” she said.
A key now, said Cote, is helping students return to the classroom with a sound mind after dealing with the past 15 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“What I would like to see at the board level is coming out of the pandemic, we may have a lot of students with anxiety issues and I believe the next board needs to concentrate on wellness,” she said. “Our staff and our students, but I think in general it’s giving the students the tools to recognize anxiety and finding out what works for them to overcome this.”
Holy Spirit uses a collaborative response model in some schools, which ensures no students fall through the cracks, said Cote.
“The teachers collaborate on our students. It identifies kids and they get the help they need to achieve their real potential,” said Cote. “I believe this is essential at this time.” Follow @DWoodardHerald on Twitter 3
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