What does a School Board Trustee do for the people of Stouffville?
The trustee is the representative and advocate of the people of Stouffville with regards to public education.  There are 13 trustees for York Region and together they have the great responsibility of creating the overall educational vision of the public schools, from setting a school’s curriculum, to creating and upholding board policy, to electing school officials and overseeing administrators.  In turn they communicate the views and decisions of the board back to their constituents.

Why would you be good at this job?
I have a great passion for education.  I desire our schools to be places where children are challenged to learn and are taught how to think.  I have been involved in many ways in school life for 30 years (volunteer, coach, supply teacher, outdoor educator, science workshop presenter, choreographer, drama productions, helping in the library and reading).  As well, I have traits that would be helpful in this role – organized, energetic (get things done), compassionate, approachable, good listener, and someone who seeks the truth by asking questions.

What issues are you concerned about? Why should the people of Stouffville share your concerns?
One concern is about how to recover from missed learning opportunities due to distance learning challenges that took place during the pandemic.  Another great concern is about some of the ideologies that have shaped policies and influenced curriculum.  These are harmful to kids, destructive to families, creating division between groups of people, destroying relationships, and putting an unnecessary burden on teachers.  In speaking with teachers, there also seems to be an increase in violence and rude behaviour in the classroom. This has been more prevalent upon returning to in-person learning.

Describe what a successful term with you as School Board Trustee would accomplish?
I would want parents and constituents to feel they can come to me with their concerns and feel heard.  I would also like them to be aware of what is going on at the board level and allow them to provide input about policies and procedures.  I would like people to have full confidence in the public school system and for there to be a strong school-community relationship.