MY PRIORITIES:

STUDENT LEARNING & SUCCESS

Every student deserves an equitable and meaningful education. Every LRSD decision should be tested against a simple question: Does it serve students well and support their success?

Putting student learning, well-being and success at the heart of every decision.

ACCOUNTABILITY TO THE TAXPAYERS

Earlier this year LRSD disclosed to its staff and families that the division had commenced the 2025-2026 school year with a deficit “LRSD has now exhausted its accumulated surplus and entered the current school year with a $2.42 million deficit” (LRSD communication January 4, 2026).

After the board approved the 2026-2027 budget on March 10, 2026, it was reported that LRSD was “raising property taxes by 10% to eliminate an accumulated deficit and balance its budget” (Free Press “LRSD approves 2026-27 budget, tax hike” March 10, 2026).

It was further reported that of all six major school divisions in the city, LRSD topped the list with its tax hike (CTV News, Jeff Keele, “School tax hikes adding up in Winnipeg”, March 17, 2026).

Local property owners cannot sustain record setting tax increases year over year. Public funds are limited and taxpayers want to ensure their tax dollars are being spent wisely.

Responsible spending that prioritizes classroom and student needs.

TRANSPARENCY TO THE ELECTORATE

From my observation in meetings, much of the board’s work and decision making occurs behind closed doors.

Move more of the board’s discussion and debate into the public forum.

I have witnessed trustees vote against a motion or abstain without providing any context to the electorate. Our community deserves open and transparent decisions.

Voters have a right to know the rationale behind every trustee’s vote.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

This past school year too few residents participated in the public board meetings. These meetings are an important forum for community to be heard.

Remove roadblocks to encourage more attendance and participation in the public board meetings.

While Parent Advisory Councils (PACs) are often relied on to fundraise and plan events, their most important role is serving as the voice of their school community.

The Board of Trustees must ensure PAC perspectives inform decision making.