32 2017 ELECTION PREVIEW


Jeremy Williamson


1 I support the intent behind policy 622, and that is to stop bullying, harassment, or


intimidation of those who may be of a sexual minority. I however do not support the policy as it is written. There are contradictory statements between policy and procedures, between one procedure and another, and parts of the policy and procedures are in violation of the Alberta School Act, and the Alberta Family Law Act. The policy needs to be re-written to comply with the law as it applies to parental rights. I think it needs to clearly outline age appropriate approaches, and should establish procedures for identifying ‘frivolous or vexatious’ abuse. The procedures around “self-identification” are much too vague and leave other children open to abuse.


2


As trustee I would do everything I could to limit cuts to educational programs or staff. I believe that the government is sending conflicting messages that make it hard for local Boards to be effective. Why has the Government forced a decrease in school fees, while at the same time not exempting school buses from the carbon tax? I would also ask why they launched a government funded school lunch program when local charities like United Way were already providing that service at a substantially lower cost? They have increased costs, and decreased revenues. I would look for ways to cut expenses, without cutting services. A district should not operate in the red. Hard choices might need to be made.


3


A trustee's responsibility is to see that all students are treated fairly in a safe environment, that they receive the best quality education possible, and make sure staff have the tools they need to provide that education through a balanced budget. In order to fulfill those responsibilities, a Trustee would need to consider the needs of every child under their care. Careful coordination between administration and parents or guardians to manage current resources efficiently and ensure extra resources can be practically supported, would suffice in most cases. If clear deficits are identified, the Board should work to acquire those additional resources from Alberta Education or possibly from private supporters.


Catherine Wilson-Fraser


1 I support policy 622 one hundred percent. It is my commitment to all children to protect


them and provide a warm, safe, caring environment, especially when they are away from the comfort of their home. I hold myself accountable as a School Trustee to not discriminate against anyone, especially a child. It is my dedication to serve children and their families and offer continued support, trust and safety measures so all children can have the opportunity for a bright successful future where they feel welcomed and have the same opportunities that every other child has. Sadly, not all children have the comfort of open communication at home. By providing a welcoming safe place in our schools, we hopefully give that child a sense of belonging.


2 “A deep sense of love and belonging is an irreducible need of all people” — Brene Brown


At this time, the District does not have a transportation deficit. That being said, as costs rise and grants decline, we are entering a time where some hard decisions will have to be made. A few things may have to be looked at. First and foremost, where will we find the money? I stand by small class sizes so for me it is not about filling our classrooms up to find the money. This is where parent input will be key for me. Communicating with our families about what we can do as a district to keep school costs at a minimum will be important. The last thing I want is to have to take from instruction to subsidize transportation.


3


The success of an inclusive environment relies on a well-rounded communicative approach by our educators, parents and the child. There is research that shows all children can learn in the right environment with the right resources. Working together as a team to ensure a child has the right tools they need to ensure their learning can happen. MHSD #76 has four universal goals: an Optimal Learning Environment, Inclusive Mindset, a Culture of Wellness and Leadership skills all with student engagement as their priority so that learning happens for every child. There are excellent and well trained Teachers, Support Staff, and Educational Assistants all working together with the sole purpose of helping the child be successful. As a trustee I always put the child’s best interests first.


ON OCTOBER 16, 2017 VOTE FOR YOUR MEDICINE HAT public school division TRUSTEES


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