My Priorities as School Board Trustee

1. Public Funding for Public Schools

I believe public dollars should support public education, not be siphoned away into private or charter systems. Edmonton Public Schools serve the majority of children in our city, but our classrooms continue to be underfunded. I will advocate for a funding model that makes sure resources are directed where they are most needed, into classrooms, programs, and supports for ALL students. This includes pushing back on provincial decisions that disadvantage growing divisions like EPSB and fighting for a fair funding model across Alberta.

2. Adequate Funding for All Schools and Staff

Schools cannot survive without adequate funding for both staff and students. As a former teacher I know that classrooms are becoming more complex, with students bringing a wide range of learning needs. However we cannot let these needs be viewed as a burden on our children’s education because these needs ARE our children’s education! I will advocate for more teachers, educational assistants, and specialists to reduce classroom pressures and ensure every student receives the attention and resources they deserve. I will also fight to restore early intervention supports and push the province to modernize the outdated Standards for Special Education, so staff are better equipped to meet the realities of today’s classrooms.

3. Protecting Vulnerable Children from Scapegoating

Children, especially those who are racialized, Indigenous, gender-diverse, refugees, or living with disabilities, must never be used as political scapegoats. I will stand firm against policies or rhetoric that target vulnerable students, and I will work to make sure schools are safe, affirming, and inclusive spaces for every child. This includes pushing back on legislation that undermines protections for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, advocating for equity focused training for staff, and ensuring reconciliation is meaningfully advanced through curriculum, as well as partnerships and learnings with Indigenous communities.

4. Supporting Parents and Communities

Parents and families are essential partners in education. I will work to strengthen collaboration between schools, parents, and community organizations so families feel supported and heard in decisions that affect their children. I also believe schools should be true community hubs! We know schools do so much in their communities, offering not only education but also access to mental health supports, social services, and recreation opportunities. By building these connections, we can help every child get what they need to thrive both in school and in life.

5. Working with Other Boards and Outside Agencies

Strong advocacy requires partnership. I will work closely with other school boards, as well as provincial and federal organizations, to fight for the funding and policies our students need. Whether it is pushing back against an underfunded curriculum, advocating for restored Jordan’s Principle funding for Indigenous students, addressing deferred maintenance costs, or standing up for the rights of our students and communities, I believe Edmonton Public Schools are stronger when we stand with others. By building broad coalitions, I will fight to make sure our communities voices are heard at every level of government.