What issues directly affect our schools?
Some have asked me what challenges are directly affecting my ward / zone. These were some of my opinions on the topic.
My Response
The greatest challenge in Bay Ward / Zone 4 is also our greatest gift. We live in a a very culturally and socially-economically diverse community. This diversity is reflected both between and within our schools. The challenge that comes with diversity surrounds ensuring that everyone has an equal voice and representation in the education system. For some schools in our community, the parent voice is loud and strong - they are able to mobilize resources of manpower and funds for their events and initiatives. For others, this is just not the case and it is not the case because of lack of interest in the schools or student success but rather a lack of familiarity with the system and how to navigate it it successfully.
The challenge for the trustee in this ward will be developing trusting and open relationships with the parents in all schools. It should be noted that when given the right support school communities can work with the board to creatively solve problems. In this ward, the parents' council was an active stakeholder in advocating for the establishment of an alternative program at Regina Public School. This move saved the school from closure and has resulted in the revitalization of a school community. The diversity of the community is also reflected in the diversity of schools and programs offered within its boundaries.
This zone is comprised of elementary schools and a high school; early French immersion, middle French immersion and English with core French programs; an alternative school and a special education center - we have it all. It will be both interesting and challenging to represent all of these diverse schools, the students who attend them and their families.
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