The Citizen asked all 16 school board trustees to fill out a questionnaire on who they are and what they wish for the future of education.
I am the interim executive director at Big Brothers Big Sisters. I have spent the last eight years working for nonprofit organizations advocating for children and youth.
I am also quite active in the community with various organizations including organizing the HEARTS Christmas dinner for seniors. I currently do not have children but my wife and I have no desire to move and know that when we start a family our children will be attending a local school.
As a product of SD57, a previous volunteer in the school and community stakeholder, I have witnessed some holes in the system. I have sat on local, regional and provincial boards and my work with nonprofit organizations have allowed me to become very confident with budgeting, governance and policy development.
My passion, education and experience will help me perform my duties as a trustee.
The board meetings are not effective as policies and procedures have become outdated and past boards have made numerous exceptions. Time is spent debating policy that is outlined but because precedent has been set the same discussion keeps occurring.
I believe the board needs to meet with senior administration and look at developing a short term strategic plan. We need to think proactively and not deal with a situation only when absolutely needed. I also believe the district needs to look at its consultation process and allow for more opportunity for feedback from stakeholders.
Decisions and debate seems to happen behind closed doors and many stakeholders feel that their suggestions and concerns are not considered.
A big problem is overspending. I respect the current board and the struggles they faced over the past term. However I believe that it is now a time for a change and someone to come in a look at the budget and ask is there a more effective way?
Every day I need to find ways to spend less yet grow our current level of service.
During the last set of school closures many great cost cutting measures were brought forward. Not every suggestion is feasible at this time, but a lot need be explored and current funds can then be allocated to where they belong - in the classroom.
There are three pressing issues that need attention from the new board. First is funding, looking at ways to proactively cut spending now so we don't have to ever look at cutting service.
During this process the board needs to continue to apply pressure on the provincial government to continue its review on the funding formula and look at opportunities for partnerships and collaborations.
Second, the board needs to look at governance by reviewing policies and procedures and forming a three to five year strategic plan. Third, the new board needs to work at regaining the trust of our stakeholders. Parents and students have been on the defensive since 2002 and need to know that steps are being taken to make education better. Two-way communication is needed.
