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The per-student funding that the provincial government provides to school districts has not been increasing quickly enough to meet the growing needs of schools. This shortfall makes it difficult for school districts including Coquitlam to provide the services their students require. I would work with parents, school staff, community members and other districts to pressure the provincial government to increase the funding allocated to education so we can get more resources into the classroom and helping students learn.
Trustees in School District 43 are among the highest paid in the province, despite the district being smaller then both the Surrey and Vancouver School Districts. In those districts, trustees are managing more students, staff and schools while receiving lower compensation. I believe we should be accountable in how public funds are used. As such if elected, I will cut my trustee salary in half to better align with other districts in the province and redirect those funds towards resources our classrooms urgently need and ultimately helping ensure every student has the supports and opportunities they deserve.
Biography
Community service has also always been an important part of my life. I currently serve on the City of Coquitlam's Culture Services Advisory Committee and previously served on the Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee. I am also proud to currently be in the process of organizing Coquitlam's September Veterans Walk, with the goal of bringing our community together to raise funds to support our veterans, their families and cadets.
In recognition of my community service, I was honoured to be invested as a Knight in the Order of St. George. I am committed to continuing that spirit of service by working to ensure every student in our district has the opportunity to thrive.
Reason for running
The Coquitlam School Board is facing difficult decisions about budgets and policy that will shape the future of our schools. As a high school science teacher and former special education teacher, I bring a unique perspective to the school board if elected. My experience working directly with students, families, and colleagues gives me a clear understanding of how board decisions affect classrooms every day. I am committed to ensuring that every budget and policy decision is made with a strong understanding of its impact on students, staff, and the learning environment.
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