Election 2016

No Candidate

Acclaimed – Goronwy Price

Guy Elliott

339 Viking Crescent, Labrador City, NL A2V 1R6

Email: gyelliott@nf.sympatico.ca
Phone: 709-944-5607
Cell: 709-280-0091

Born in Botwood and lived in the area until graduating from High School

Education

After graduating from High School attended MUN for one year and District Vocational School in Grand Falls, graduating with Honors in Bookkeeping/Accounting.

Work History

Moved to Labrador West to accept employment with IOCC. Worked for thirty one and one half years, primarily in Financial Services gaining experience in Budgeting, Accounting and Payroll.

Community involvement

Enjoys the lifestyle that Labrador West has to offer. Participated in a number of sports and recreational activities, including hockey, cross country skiing, soccer, amateur radio and snowmobiling.

Interest/involvement in education

Have served as a school board trustee for 19 years; first on the Labrador School Board and most recently as a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board. Served as chairperson of the Labrador School Board for 6 Years and other executive positions for 10 years. Since being appointed to the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board I have served on the executive committee.

I strongly believe in a public education system, which is governed by trustees who are elected by their communities. We must not abdicate this right by our lack of participation.

Lester B. Simmons

I am offering myself as a candidate for Trustee with the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board for Zone 3, which includes Labrador City and Wabush.

I came to Labrador City in 1980 for one year to teach Science at Labrador City Collegiate. I quickly realized I loved the town and made it my home.

The active lifestyle in our community has given my wife Ruth and I many opportunities to engage our two children. The open, friendly and caring nature of our residents has made Labrador City a wonderful place to raise them.

Over the past 36 years, I have been involved in many different levels of education both in Labrador West and throughout Labrador. Ruth and I retired from wonderful careers in 2012.

During my 32-year career in education, I wore many hats. My roles have included;

• Science, Computer Studies, Chemistry teacher Labrador City Collegiate (L.C.C.)
• Program Coordinator Computer Studies/Math/Science with the R.C. School Board for Labrador
• I played a key role in bringing Internet access to all schools operated by The R.C. School Board for Labrador, the Labrador West Integrated School Board and the Labrador East Integrated School board.
• Program Specialist Computer Technology with the Labrador School Board
• Vice-Principal at L.C.C.
• Principal Menihek High School
• Assistant Director of Education (Human Resources) with the Labrador School Board

The wide variety of jobs I had over my professional career gave me a good understanding into how the K – 12 system works, an eye to the needs for our local area and the needs of our province as a whole.

During my professional career as an educator in Labrador City, I continually demonstrated that I am effective in a leadership role. I have been successful in many projects working with community businesses and organizations to improve conditions at the school for our children. One of my proudest accomplishments was leading a team at Menihek to work with local businesses creating the Menihek High School Soup Kitchen. This involved bringing the community to our school to assist us. Over the last 4 years while I was Principal at Menihek, we were able to provide approximately 10,000 free, nutritious lunches to anyone who needed, or wanted one at the school.

I’m putting my name forward because I feel I am the best person to represent our area on the provincial board. I am hard working, knowledgeable of the K–12 school system and those who know me, know I am not afraid to speak my mind.

Thank you and please remember to Vote on Nov. 22

Acclaimed – Scott Burden

Nada Borden

I was born and raised in Petries, Corner Brook.  I am married to Bruce Borden and we have three children and one Grandson.  We are all graduates of our public education system – all graduated from Corner Brook Regional High (formerly Herdman/ARHS).  I received my Bachelor’s degree in 1977 from Memorial University and the Certified General Accountant designation in 1991.  I am a retired educator from College of the North Atlantic where I taught in the Business Administration program.

Highlights of my volunteerism as a School Board Trustee:

• First elected in 2005; re-elected in 2009 and one of 3 selected from Western School District to serve on the newly consolidated Board of Trustees in 2013.
• 3 years as Chair of Western School District – member of Executive Committee from 2008 to present.
• 3 years as President of Provincial School Boards Association, NLSBA
• 2.5 years as National President of Canadian School Boards Association & Life Member
• Served as Chair and/or member of various sub-committees of Board
• Knowledgeable of the role of a Governance Board; the NL Schools Act; and the NLTA Teacher’s Act & Contract.
• Participated in development and implementation of new Constitution and By-Laws of NLESD.
• Believe in the Vision and Mission of the NL English School District, its Strategic Plan and adherence to the goals and objectives of that Plan.

Other community volunteerism includes Junior Achievement Board, Board of Blomidon Golf & Country Club, Corner Brook Rotary Club, EI Board of Referees, Corner Brook 50th Anniversary Committee, Council of Federation 2006, Labour Relations Board, Board of Governors of CGA, and Cancer Society Daffodil Campaign.

My Priorities:

• To provide the best educational opportunities possible for all our children
• Increase student achievement and graduation rates
• Listen and respond to all local educational concerns in Zone 5 and advocate on their behalf
• Maintain and ensure students have safe and caring learning environments in state of the art learning facilities
• Encourage healthy eating and physical activities as part of the learning environment
• To ensure every child is provided the opportunity to achieve to his/her full potential

I am a dedicated and devoted worker - a genuine lifelong learner and volunteer with a proven track record.

Bruce Cluney

Email: bruce.cluney@gmail.com

On November 22nd, Vote Bruce Cluney as your Trustee (Zone5) for the School Board Elections NL 2016

• Resident of Zone 5 for 25 years
• Masters of Education (Administration), Bachelor of Education, and Bachelor of Arts (English)
• Schools attended include: MUN, Laval University and CONA
• Professional experience in education includes: (Guidance Counsellor, Vice-Principal, Principal, Classroom &  Substitute Teacher) throughout Zone 5
• 15 years of experience on school councils in Zone 5 including positions of Chair and Vice-chair.
• Father of 5 (2 of which are still in the K-12 system)
• Presently self-employed as a consultant and financial advisor in the  financial services profession.
• Some past and present volunteer experiences include: Tely Tour Junior Golf Western Coordinator, Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade (Past Vice-president), Humber Education Alliance, Humber Economic Development Board, Humber Valley Employment Corporation, Gideons International, and Corner Brook Minor Hockey

Bruce’s professional and volunteer experiences have given him some valuable insights into the key issues and concerns of this zone including:

• Declining enrolments
• Increased class sizes
• Reduced teacher allocations
• Classroom Resources
• School closures 
• Reorganization of K-6 system in Corner Brook
• Reductions in Budgets for Professional Development and Substitute teachers

As a candidate with children in the K-12 system, Bruce will work hard to make sure the voices and concerns of all are heard. Make sure yours is heard on November 22nd.

“Our Children – Our Future!”

 

Robyn Dillman B.Sc.

12 Eighth Ave, Pasadena, NL A0L 1K0

Email: robyndillman@hotmail.com
Phone: (709)686-5596
Twitter: @robyndillman

I feel strongly that children are our future. They need a solid education that gives them the skills they need to continue learning throughout their lives. I am running for the NLESD School Board because I believe we can do better for our children and our Province.

As a parent of two children in the school district, a school volunteer, an employee with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and a community member, I believe the future educational system needs a structured governing body that can assist in identifying opportunities for improvement in our current education system. In my few years of being involved in the education system I have seen many things that are working as well as problems that our students and families are facing. The school board should be involving parents, teachers, students and community members in the decisions for the schools.

This election is an excellent opportunity for the residents of our province, this new board will provide 
support to the teachers who do their best work with our kids every day. This means listening to and incorporating the input of teachers, families and community members when developing policies. And it means holding the Department of Education accountable when projections are not meet.

Pasadena is the town I grew up in, I completed my elementary, middle school and high
school education this town. Upon graduation I attend Memorial University, Grenfell Campus for one year and completed my B.Sc. at the Nova Scotia Agriculture College in Truro Nova Scotia.  Upon graduation I worked for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food in Guelph Ontario and in 2004 I moved back to Newfoundland. Shortly after moving home I started my career with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador working in the Agrifoods Development Branch, where I am still employed today. 

As an active resident with the Town of Pasadena I have been involved with many programs over the years, including but not limited to the Pasadena Winter Carnival, St, David’s Anglican Church, St. John Ambulance, Pasadena Elementary School Council, Event Planning committee, Marble Mountain Race Team Board of Directors and the Humber Valley Rowing Club.

Through my work and volunteer experience I have gained the skill set to analyze complicated issues and provide meaningful input to develop policies and strategies that solve difficult problems.

As an active member of the School Board I will be your voice to ensure that the education system in our province is providing the optimal environment for student success.

Pamela Gill

Corner Brook, NL

Email: pamelazone5@yahoo.ca

I have been a Corner Brook resident since 1994, and a “transient” resident of Cow Head since 2008 (I purchased property in Cow Head in 2013). I’m gratified both these communities are situated in Zone 5.

The daughter of a high school teacher and an elementary school music teacher, I was born in St. John’s where I attended school in the Avalon School District. I attended St. John’s Campus, MUN, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts (honours) in English and French in 1992. In Halifax, I earned a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of King’s College in 1994. I finally (and thankfully!) landed on the “best coast” that same year and have had my permanent residence in Corner Brook ever since. Through distance education I earned a Master of Education from Memorial in 2011. I also hold a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from York University (2013), am a graduate of the Legacy Leadership ©Program (2013), and hold various certificates in supervisory skills and social media/e-marketing.

With respect to my employment history, from 1992 to 1998 I was a reporter/editor at a number of newspapers, including the Halifax Daily News, the Evening Telegram and the Western Star. In 1998 I traded journalism for communications, taking on a shared position between (then) Western Health Care Corporation and Grenfell Campus. In 2000 I took a full-time position with Grenfell in the Division of Community Education and College Relations. Today I am the communications manager in Grenfell’s Marketing and Communications Department.

As for my personal and volunteer interests, I have been a member of the board of Theatre Newfoundland Labrador, which has operations in both Corner Brook and Cow Head, since 2000. I also am familiar with of many other communities within the region, not through only my work with TNL but also my previous experience with the health centres governed by Western Health Care Corporation (Port Saunders, Norris Point, Deer Lake, White Bay and Corner Brook). Other community and volunteer interests include Western Memorial Hospital Foundation (board member), the Off-Broadway Players (past-president and founding member), AcaBella small vocal ensemble (founding member), various fundraisers for Children’s Wish, Cancer Society, SPCA, school breakfast programs and J.J. Curling Space Camp 2017 parent committee.

I am passionate about learning. The health of our education system is absolutely vital to the socio-economic wellbeing of our people and province. I believe all children, regardless of their geography, should be treated equally and with respect. I also believe that common sense is the best sense – sometimes decisions have to be made that challenge our notions of fairness. But if we are honest, open and transparent, difficult decisions will be more easily understood, and popular ones will be embraced all the more. I am eager to examine and understand the policies and procedures that govern our children’s education.

I have always been interested in education governance. As a reporter, I covered the five-year process of education reform that removed religion from public school governance. Today, we have reached another critical crossroad: the first elections for the NLESD since 2009, and the first election to use direct voting for CSFP. As the mother of a Grade 6 student who has attended all but two elementary schools in the public system in Corner Brook (as well as the private school), I have a distinct parental perspective that spans several school administrations, and am able to compare and contrast what works best at these various schools (Humber Elementary, Sacred Heart Elementary, J.J. Curling and Immaculate Heart). The factors that link and differentiate these school administrations are quite remarkable when observed through a multi-school lens. With the English School District governing all English public schools in the province, let’s keep this in mind: the whole may be greater than the sum of its parts, but it is in the “parts” where our children live and learn. Our lens necessarily must be broad, yet discerning.

Brian Hudson

3 Bonnell Drive, Pasadena, NL

Email: brianhudson@nl.rogers.com
Phone: 709-394-0268
Twitter: @BrianJHudson Facebook: www.facebook.com/BrianHudsonNL LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/hudsonbrian

Brian is married to Jacenta Hudson, a nurse and they have three young girls, the oldest of which is just beginning her public-school education.

Employed as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Pasadena, Brian has worked in the public sector for most of his career.  Brian has been employed the past eight years as a Chief Administrative Officer for two municipalities, was an advisor to a federal cabinet minister and was employed as a manager with St. John’s Sports & Entertainment Ltd. Brian has also provided independent government relations consulting to business and non-profit clients.

Community involvement is of great importance to Brian. Some of Brian’s current and past volunteer community involvement includes;

• Trustee, Western Health
• Firefighter, Pasadena Fire Rescue
• Treasurer, Parish Council
• Member, Advisory Council to the Minister of Human Resources Labour and Employment
• Director, Victorian Order of Nurses – St. John’s Branch
• Chairperson, Thrive CYN
• Director, Capital Coast Development Alliance
• Director, Memorial University Recreation Complex Inc. “The Works”
• Director, Community Centre Alliance
• Municipal Councillor

While Zone 5 is a large geographically area, Brian is committed to being a most accessible trustee. If elected, he will ensure his availability throughout the term of office to all stakeholders (parents, teachers, school councils, public etc.). Brian’s mission is to provide great governance and increased educational outcomes by ensuring all children’s entitlements and ease of access to the best learning opportunities available.

Brian Hudson has never shied away from a challenge.  Brian is smart, driven and has the experience we need for newly elected trustees.

Damien Keating

28 Middle Rd. Deer Lake, NL

Email: kefkaspawn@hotmail.com
Phone: 709-636-9809

I have lived and worked in Newfoundland my whole life.

Education

High school diploma from Elwood Regional High School.

Career/work

I work in Agriculture at Rideouts Farm.

I absolutely love Newfoundland...I currently work in Agriculture, I also got heavily involved in politics this year which pushed my interest in education even more. I started the stop the levy tax petition which received 19000 signatures and have been a strong voice when it comes to the issues that affect our province. I have been fighting against many issues that Newfoundland and Labrador have been facing in the last year and will continue to do so in the future. I believe that even though there are positive things happening within the educational system here in Newfoundland.....there are also things that can be changed. I have over ten years experience with business management, I also have over ten years experience with public service and the food industry. I think that with my experience dealing with people and being a down to earth person gives me the skills needed to really dig deep into the problems we will have to face with our children’s futures. I think if we spend more time getting parents and teachers involved in making decisions together, that would be a huge help in fixing a lot of issues we are facing. I have a interest in Finland’s education system and believe that positive changes can be made to our provinces system that will benefit our children. I am very determined and a very hard worker, i have no problems facing the real issues and some would say i have a big mouth and really speak my mind. I am also a parent who has a child who will be starting school next year and i want what is best for him and the generations to follow. Now is the time for change...it is the time for people to stand up and have a say in how we want our children to get the best education that they can. With new ideas and fresh faces on the board.....I positive that we can make these changes happen. Best of luck to all candidates and lets do what is right for our children.

Denise Avery

Stephenville, NL

Originally from New World Island, NL., Denise Avery has been living in Stephenville, NL since 2004, having moved there to work at College of the North Atlantic in her role with the School of Academics, Applied Arts & Tourism as Faculty for the Community Studies program. More recently, and over the past five years, Ms. Avery has worked in an instructional leadership role as Program Developer with the same School.

Having a keen interest in education and lifelong learning, Ms. Avery has worked with numerous educational initiatives and with various community-based groups including people of all ages. Her volunteer work involves many age groups as well; from teaching children ages 6 to 11 at Sunday School to working with youth who may be at-risk through the Extrajudicial Measures Program. Her volunteer work also includes working with adult women, seniors and in the past had included working with people with disabilities (LDANL), and people with mental health issues (CMHA). Currently, Ms. Avery volunteers with the Flat Bay Band Council and has recently been recognized for her role as a Committee Representative, receiving a "Committee Representative of the Year" award at the recent Annual General Assembly meeting. As a non-native, Ms. Avery also was deeply humbled to recently receive the Eagle Feather from the Band.

Ms. Avery holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Arts/Community Studies. Prior to this, she completed a Journalism Diploma and has worked with Canada's Yellow Pages (Bell ActiMedia) first as a Layout Editor and while finishing her M.Ed., she also worked as the Assistant Manager/Education Department.

Ms. Avery has first-hand knowledge of working with the school system to identify appropriate accommodations in response to the learning needs of a child and she understands the concerns of parents when considering class size and student/teacher ratio. Ms. Avery is committed to representing the parents and families of children within Zone 6 and implementing best practices designed to foster the learning and growth opportunities for all children and youth involved.

Ms. Avery understands the current issues facing the public education system in this province; issues such as properly resourcing full day kindergarten, providing the necessary supports required for inclusive education, exploring alternatives to combined grading and ensuring that student/teacher ratios are in support of student learning.

Committed to working collaboratively and in pursuit of positive outcomes, she understands that these are just some of the issues that many parents, guardians and teachers in this province are concerned about.

Ms. Avery believes it is possible to employ a strong education system for the children and youth of this province, while working toward responsible, student-focused solutions that will positively impact the communities of the Western region.

Wayne Lee

14 Keating Place, Stephenville

Email: waynemlee@hotmail.com
Phone: 709-643-4718

Education

Graduate of MUN (B.A. / B. Ed. / M.Ed)

Career / work

Retired Science Department Head – Stephenville High / School Council member – Stephenville High / Executive Member – Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association / Negotiating Team – NLTA / Treasurer and executive member – Western School District / Trustee – NL English School District / Negotiating team – NLESD / President – NL High School Athletic Association

Community involvement

President – Indian Head Co-op / Board member – NL Federation of Co-ops / 1st vice-president Co-op Atlantic / Vice-chair – Bay St. George Community College

Leadership experience

Elected to two terms as trustee – WNLSD / Currently trustee – NLESD / Vice-president – Co-op Atlantic / Negotiating teams – NLTA and NLESD

Interest / involvement in education and school governance

I have been involved in education from Kindergarten to the present, from grade school to university to being a trustee with the WNLSD and now as a trustee for the NL English School District. I have been, and am, committed to maintaining the highest standard of education for the children of southwestern NL.

Rick Duffy

12 Gardner Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL, A2A2T3

Email: rduffy@nl.rogers.com
Phone: (709) 489-3386

Of all the responsibilities which government has, none is more important than the education of our province’s children. I am currently seeking your support to become an elected trustee in ZONE 07 of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District.

I was born and raised in Port au Port East on the island’s West Coast. I retired in 2015 after 26 years of teaching. I taught at St. Augustine’s High in Plum Point, Fogo Island Central Academy on Fogo Island, and Leo Burke Academy in Bishop’s Falls. I was English Department Head for 20 years until I retired.  In each of these communities I was actively involved in the Newfoundland and Labrador Teacher’s Association (NLTA). I served as Branch President of the Fogo Island Branch and Exploits Valley Branch for 23 years of my teaching career.  I also represented teachers as a member of the School Board - Teacher Liaison Committee under the Nova Central Consolidated School Board, NLTA Committee Member of Generational Equity of Teachers (provincially) and attended most of the AGM and BGM meetings of the association from 1991 - 2015. In 2016, I received the NLTA’s President’s Award for outstanding contribution to the Association and The Bancroft Award in recognition and appreciation for outstanding service to the Branches of the NLTA

Since retirement, I have continued my love of teaching as an Adult Educator at Corona College in Grand Falls-Windsor.  This experience has reaffirmed my belief that our education system has to reach each and every student to harness their potential. As a lifelong learner, I believe the success of our province is dependent upon active, diverse learners who are engaged in quality education. Once a student is fully engaged, the possibilities become limitless! It is the responsibility of the Department of Education to ensure that teachers and staff have the resources to accomplish this attainable task.  

As a trustee, I believe my experience and passion for education can have a positive impact on the decisions school boards have to make when providing quality education.

Terry Green

My name is Terry Green and I am offering myself as a candidate for trustee of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District.  I am hoping that after you assess my experience, dedication and vision for this school district that you will support my bid as trustee.
My professional experience includes:

• 30 years funeral director/embalmer
• Owner /Operator three funeral homes
• 12 years Chairperson of Newfoundland and Labrador Funeral Directors board

I have had much success in my career but my greatest success in my lifetime would definitely be my two children, Adam and Katie, who are currently in the school system.  As a widower, my role in my children’s life is very significant, and as a result when they entered school I took the initiate to become involved in the whole school experience as much as possible.   I wanted to ensure that my children, along with all children, would have the opportunity to avail of the best possible education that this province has to offer.  I knew that the best way to do this was to become involved in any avenue that would allow me as a parent to have a say in the future of our education system. Upon my children entering school I immediately offered myself for a position on the school council.  This gave me an opportunity to understand how the school was run, how decisions were made and what supports the individual schools received from the school boards and the Department of Education.  This fostered a desire to learn more and to become more involved, so I ran for a position on the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils.  I was elected, first run, as first vice president which is a position I currently hold.
My experience with the school system is as follows:

• 7 years local school council, 6 of those years as chairperson
• 6 years as 1st Vice President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils

As the chairperson of the local council I played a very significant role this past spring in the restructuring of the school system in Grand Falls Windsor.  This was a monumental undertaking which involved the cooperation and collaboration of many stakeholders including the school board.  I was involved in decision making, creating alternatives and lobbying on behalf of the schools involved.  This experience was very valuable for me in helping me further understand the role of the School Board, as well as gain knowledge of the responsibilities and expectations that are placed upon them. I played an active role in a process which has become a great responsibility of our province’s School Board in the past few years.  I was also able to develop some very significant professional relationships with people who have a direct impact on our education system.
My vision for this board includes the following:

• Increased communication with the public including teachers and parents
• Clear goals and objectives which reflect the current needs of our education system
• Greater public participation in board meetings
• Foster a positive attitude towards the work of the School Board

 In deliberating my experience you will see that my involvement is both current and relevant to the issues that are facing our Education system.  I believe that experience along with my personal, vested interest in our system, makes me the best candidate for this position.  I sincerely solicit your consideration for me as School Board Trustee.

Thomas Kendell

Education

Diploma in the Education of students who are Visually Impaired and Blind 1985 and completed Graduate courses in Special Education and Educational Psychology at University of British Columbia 1985. Bachelor of Elementary Education, 1974 Bachelor of Special Education, 1981-Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Work Experience

• Retired from District 5 (Baie Verte, Central, Connaigre School Board) in June 2004
• Itinerant teacher for visually impaired students with the Exploits Valley Integrated School Board, Roman Catholic School Board for Exploits-White Bay and the Pentecostal Assemblies Board of Education in Central Newfoundland (1982-1997) and Green Bay Integrated School Board and Bay d’Espoir Integrated School Board 1997-2004.
• Special Education teacher in Belleoram 1974-1975 and Peterview 1975-1982
• Teaching principal on Pass Island from 1969-1970 (Grades 6-10) in one classroom

Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association (NLTA) Involvement

• Member of the NLTA School Board-Teacher Liaison Committee 1989-1991 and 2002-2003
• President of the NLTA Exploits Valley Branch from 1989-1991 and 2002-2003
• Received the Bancroft Award from the NLTA in 2002 for outstanding service at the branch level.

Community Involvement

• President of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador 2012-2016
• Treasurer and Director of the Beothuk Institute 2006-2012
• President of the Central NL Gardening Club 1996-1998, 2004-2016
• President of the Toastmasters Club of Grand Falls-Windsor 1993-1995

School Board and School Council Involvement

• Community representative and chairperson on Exploits Valley High School Council 2014-2016
• School Board Trustee for Grand Falls-Windsor 2005-2013
• Parent Representative on Windsor Collegiate School Council 1995-1998
• President, NLSBA, 2008-2009
• Chairperson Nova Central School Board and member of NLSBA Board of Governors 2005-2009

David Oxford

16 Shallow Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL

Email: davidoxford7@gmail.com
Phone: 709-489-3006
Facebook: DavidOxfordNLESDBoardTrusteeCandidate

I have decided to seek the NLESD Zone 7 Board Trustee position.

Upon finishing high school at Cottrell’s Cove Academy, I continued my education at Memorial University and the University of Manitoba where I obtained a Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2003. Later that year, I began my social worker career in Gambo working with Child Protection, Foster Care, Adoptions, Youth Corrections and Youth Services. During this time, I was involved with: (1) working to protect and support children in risk of being harmed, (2) training and supporting foster and adoptive parents, (3) finding suitable foster care placements for children and youth and supporting them in these new placements, (4) supporting young offenders and their families, and (5) being the foster care social worker liaison within the Central NL area.

In 2013, I moved to Grand Falls-Windsor to work with Child Care Services. This work allowed me to: (1) develop new licensed child care spaces throughout Central NL, (2) licence and monitor child care centres, (3) support 8 Family Resource Centres throughout Central NL, (4) investigate child care centres as deemed necessary and (5) provide expertise to the NL government in creating a new record management system for Child Care Services.

In addition to the above employment, I have volunteer experience in these roles:

• Board Trustee/Executive - Nova Central School District (Nov 2009 – Dec 2012) (NOTE: Being that I was the trustee for the Gambo/Glovertown area, I had to vacate the trustee role when I moved to Grand Falls-Windsor)
• Board Chairperson - Dover & Area Family Resource Program (Nov. 2003 – Dec 2012)
• Children & Youth Worker - The Salvation Army (Sept. 1990 – Present)                                   
• Councilor – Town of Gambo (Oct 2008 – March 2011)
• Secretary – NL Federation of School Councils (April 2008 – Nov 2009)
• School Council Chair - Smallwood Academy, Gambo, NL (Oct 2006 – Nov 2009)
• Coach - Special Olympics  - Gander (Sept. 1998 - June 2000)
• Recreational Assistant  - The Salvation Army Glenbrook Lodge for Senior Citizens, St. John’s, NL (Jan. 1993 - Dec. 1995)
• Program Volunteer - Vera Perlin Society, St. John’s, NL (Sept. 1993 - Dec. 1995)

I am married to Natasha, who is a high school English teacher at Botwood Collegiate. I have 2 children: Noah, age 17 and Faith, age 14. I have 6 sisters, 4 brothers, and a remarkable mother, Evelyn (my father passed away when I was four). With my mother as a single parent for much of my childhood, I may not have gotten everything I wanted, but I definitely got everything I needed. She taught through example the most important attributes a person can have: determination, enthusiasm, and optimism. It is these attributes I will bring to the position of Zone 7 Board Trustee.

Thank you in advance for considering voting for me. You won’t be disappointed.

Acclaimed – John George

Winston Carter

P.O. Box 42 Wesleyville, NL AOG 4R0

Email: winsecarter@yahoo.ca
Phone: 709 530 2720
Cell: 709 536 9467

Education

B.A., B.ED., M.ED. (Educational Administration)

Involvement/Experience

During an education career that spans over three decades, I have had the unique opportunity to engage in issues at the local school level, as a Kindergarten - Level 3 administrator, the provincial level as President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers’ Association and at the national level as President of the Canadian Teachers’.

Throughout my career my primary focus was always about communication. It allowed for the exchange of information that helped put all parties on the same wavelength. At the school level it was all about student assemblies, newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, school council, concerts or any number of other activities that would better facilitate a positive working school community. At the provincial level, as president of the NLTA, it was my interest in communication that saw me initiating a “visitation program” that placed me in the staffrooms of all 322 schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. From these school visitations came a brief that was presented to government entitled “Putting the Teacher Back into Teaching”. At the national level, as president of CTF, I represented 240,000 teachers throughout Canada.  Through CTF’s membership in Educational International, with over 300 million active teachers, I was able to see first-hand the importance and role of education on a global scale. All my experiences at each level as made an indelible impact on my view of the delivery of educational services in our province.

Issues

Our education system has seen drastic changes in the past decade. With these changes came a multitude of concerns and a system having to fast track to accommodate. The concerns being raised by parents, school councils and teachers over school closures, inclusion, bussing, inadequate funding for resources, overcrowded classrooms, lack of facilities and the elimination/reduction of student support services highlight just a few of the many issues that are directly impacting the learning environment of our students.  Within those parameters we have a dedicated teaching force striving to maintain Excellence in Education.

Why a Trustee

In offering myself as a candidate in this School Board Election, I bring with me a broad range of experiences that will enable me to be part of a team making strong, sound and forward moving decisions that will better serve all stakeholders in our education system.

Humbly asking for your support on November 22.

Kim Cheeks

25 Alcock Cresent, Gander, NL A1V 1K3

Email: kimcheeks@hotmail.com
Phone: (709) 256-7064

My name is Kim Cheeks. I am asking for your vote on November 22, 2016 to be the Trustee for Zone 9 of the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District.

Background and Experience

I have lived and worked in the Central region for the last 30 years. I am married with one son who has three learning exceptionalities and low spectrum Autism. I graduated from Acadia University in 1980 and Acadia Divinity College in 1982. Most recently I completed a Graduate Diploma in Adult Education through Memorial University of Newfoundland—St. John’s Campus. Currently I work as a Communication Consultant with Central Health. I have been a very active volunteer inmy community, through minor hockey, school council, church activities and the school board as a trustee (10 years). I have experience in the development of policy, bylaws, constitution and strategic priorities for education. Being a parent of a child with exceptionalities I believe very strongly in an equitable, just, quality, well-resourced education system. I have always been a very strong voice for all of the students in this province and especially those with special needs.

Education in this province is facing numerous challenges. With newer diagnostic tools more students are being identified as having multiple exceptionalities. Our teachers are tasked with doing more with less—we NEED to find a balance so that the needs of our administrators, teachers, support staff and students are met.

Quality education is vital for the betterment of our communities, our province andour country as a whole as it impacts directly on the health and well being of our population. A quality educational environment is built on a foundation of solid and strong governance. Strong governance is built through experienced and committed leadership. Let’s work together…

Vote for CHEEKS—a strong voice of experience for education in this province.

Newman Harris

Newman Harris has taught for 30 years in the Summerford area, serving in administration as well as a classroom teacher.  He has a B.A (Ed) with some graduate work on a Masters in Education degree from MUN.

His resume includes considerable experience with the NLTA at the local and provincial level having served on the Pensions Committee, Social Studies Council and the Math Council.  He has also been a member of the Board of Governors of the Cabot Institute, the Central Newfoundland Regional College, the Lewisporte/Gander School Board, the Nova Central School Board and presently on the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board.  On these various Boards he has served on the Executive, Policy, Finance, Programs and Communication Committees.

Mr. Harris also served as a team leader for apprenticeship accreditation for provincial and public institutions as the post secondary level.  He served as a member of the NLSBA Board of Directors and a member of the Primary Health Advisory Committee.  He was secretary of the Board of Directors for the Evergreen Manor in Summerford.

Presently he serves on the Summerford Town Council where he has been Deputy Mayor and Councilor for over 20 years.

He views the role of a school board trustee as an important one and he feels he has the experience and expertise to help develop the right policies that will govern the district.  Equal Educational opportunity must exist for all students regardless of where they live.  There is much more at stake here than the balancing of a budgets. It is the realization of the potential of future generations. It is critical that our children receive a top quality program which offers them a wide range of options.

If he is elected on November 22, 2016 he makes one promise and that is to the best of his ability he will represent the issues and concerns of all residents in Zone 9 specifically and generally, the issues and concerns that affect the district as a whole.

Fred Douglas

POB 174, Burin Bay Arm, nl A0E 1G0

Email: douglas_fred@yahoo.ca
Phone: 709-891-2669

I have been a Trustee for eight years and for most of that time I served as Chair of the Board's Programs and Human resources Committee, sat on the NLEducation Foundation and also served as a member of the Board's Executive Committee for several years.

I was born in Grand Bank and grew up in Fortune, I have lived in Marystown and Burin for most of my adult life but also lived and worked in Bay L'Argent and St. John's.

Education

• Under Graduate Studies: MUN
• Graduate Studies: Boston College

Community involvement

In every community in which I have lived I have always made it a priority to volunteer in some aspect of community life/service. I have been a founding member of one Lion's Club and the founding president of another. I have served as a member of a town council and continue to enjoy volunteering in my church and our province.

Education involvement/Interest

As a career teacher I have always had a keen interest in education and the development of children and youth. Upon retirement, after 30 years of teaching, I felt a desire to remain involved and to give back to the education system that had given my family and I so much. Becoming a Trustee was the way I chose to help make that contribution to students and parents in my zone and the entire province.

Achievements/ Accomplishments

My greatest sense of achievement will always come from having taught high school for 30 years. I was also fortunate enough to serve education provincially and nationally as the president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association (NLTA) and as a vice president on the Executive Board of the Canadian Teachers' Frederation (CTF).

I have also had the opportunity to continue my education by attending relevant seminars, workshops, conventions etc and had the honour of attending an Education International convention as a CTF delegate.

Should you require further information or wish to contact me on any matter pertinent to the above please email or telephone.

Corey T. Parsons

Telephone: 709-832-5116
Email: coreyparsons@hotmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/corey.parsons.524
Twitter: @ParsonsCorey

On November 22nd, residents throughout Newfoundland & Labrador will have the opportunity of electing a new School Board.  This election is about the future of education in rural communities.  Now more than ever, we need strong representation.

As a new candidate for Zone 10 serving the Burin Peninsula, I believe that I have the Education, Experience and Strength to be your Education Advocate.  On a personal note, my wife is a primary/elementary teacher, and I have 2 boys entering the education system in Kindergarten and a combined Grade 1/2 Class.  I know firsthand the challenges facing our schools, our teachers and our students.  As a young parent, I can relate to the education issues of your children or grandchildren.  We all have the same goal, the best possible education system for our youth.

My career began as an educator, before changing to rural development, recreation & sport, and currently working in the municipal sector.  For nearly 8 years, I worked for the Government of Newfoundland & Labrador, in numerous departments including Education, where I gained considerable knowledge in the development of public policy and budgets.  I spent a considerable amount of time working with school councils, administrations, teachers and parents advocating for the education needs of our children.

I believe rural communities and schools are at a cross roads, that is why we need a Strong Education Advocate on the Burin Peninsula.  I have a confident understanding of the issues facing our schools: such as keeping your school identity in small communities; teacher allocations to ensure the kinds of teachers are available for a proper curriculum; single grading when enrolment supports it and not to combine for budgetary reasons; and ensuring the proper resources and training are available to support full-day kindergarten and combined grades.  An issue that I have identified as the #1 issue facing the education system today is the lack of supports services for a successful inclusive education for all students.

I am committed to working collaboratively with those around us, with the goal of positive outcomes for our students. I will seek input from those I represent and advocate for the needs of our schools, our teachers and our students.  I am an energetic and young leader who works hard for success!

I truly believe that the Burin Peninsula is a great place to raise a family and deserves a great education system.   On Tuesday, November 22nd, I would appreciate your support with a vote as Trustee in Zone 10 for the Newfoundland & Labrador English School District.

Acclaimed – Hilary Primmer

Hayward Blake

Email: hayward.blake@hrgrace.ca
Phone: (709)596-7087

I am pleased to offer myself as a candidate for a trustee with the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board, for Zone 12. This Zone includes all communities from Harbour Grace to Bay de Verde to Whitbourne, to Chance Cove, inclusive.

My wife Denise and I have lived in Harbour Grace for almost 28 years.   We have two grown children, Marc and Sara.   I have been involved in education in Newfoundland and Labrador my whole career and I am currently with the Faculty of Education at Memorial University.   

I believe that I have a strong leadership background, having served in senior leadership positions at the Eastern School District and the Avalon West School District.   I was Principal at Ascension Collegiate in Bay Roberts for more than a decade.   During my principalship, the Canadian Association of Principals selected me as Principal of the Year for the country.   I have undergraduate and Masters degrees in education from Memorial University and a Masters degree from the University of Toronto. 

I have been active as a volunteer, currently serving as chair of the Board of Directors of the SPLASH Centre, member of the Board of the Princess Sheila Theatre and volunteer with the CeeBees Stars.   I am a former President of the CeeBees Minor Hockey Association and Past President of the Harbour Grace-Carbonear Progressive Conservative Association.   Provincially, I have served as a member of the Board of Regents at Memorial University and the Alumni Association. 

I promise to bring my leadership skills to the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board and to work hard as a voice for public education in this province.   As a school board trustee I will advocate for an open style of representation and seek input from citizens on the important issues facing the province.   

On November 22, I would appreciate your support.   Vote for Hayward Blake as the NLESD trustee in Zone 12.

Thank you,

Hayward

Milton Peach

82 Water Street, Carbonear

Email: milton.joan.peach@nf.sympatico.ca
Phone: (709)596-5872

Education

Milton received a B.A. (Ed) in 1972 and a B.A. in 1981 from Memorial University of Newfoundland. He is also a licensed Funeral Director since 1985. Before embarking upon a career to serve his province in Provincial Politics, Milton was an Elementary and Junior High School teacher from 1962-1982.

Political Experience

Elected as Government Member in the Provincial Legislature of Newfoundland in 1982, and served in that capacity until 1989. He also served as a Parliamentary Secretary and as a Member of the Provincial Cabinet in two Portfolios as Minister of Housing and Minister of Fisheries. In 1989, Milton became Chief of Staff to the Leader of the Opposition. In his Home Town of Carbonear, Milton also served in the position of Mayor for three terms during the period from 1977 to 1997.

Kiwanis Involvement

A member of the Kiwanis Club of Carbonear, Newfoundland since 1981, Milton, became a distinguished Club President of his home club in 1995-96. He was also President of the Trinity-Conception Kiwanis Music Festival from 1996-97 and from 1998-99. Milton served his fellow Kiwanians with dedication as Lt. Governor of Division 21. Elected as Governor Eastern Canada and the Caribbean District of Kiwanis 2001-2002 and became the first Distinguished Governor with honors for North America. In October 2005 he was appointed for a three year term as a Trustee of the Kiwanis International Foundation in the US.

Community Achievements

Milton was honored with the distinction of Carbonear Citizen of the Year for 1979. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Municipalities. Milton is a honourary member of Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 23, Carbonear, a honourary member of the Carbonear Volunteer Fire Department as well as a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge of Carbonear. He served for four years on the Avalon West School District Education Foundation. In 2000, Milton was inducted into the Hall of Fame, for Community Volunteer Service by the Baccalieu Trail Board of Trade. He was named the Male Volunteer of the Year in the Town of Carbonear for 2009.

He is a Past President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Funeral Services Association and became President of the Funeral Services Association of Canada in May 2006. In October 2005 he was elected as a Trustee for Zone 6 of the Eastern School District and re-elected in October 2009 for another 4 year term. He was elected and served as Chair of the ESDNL from 2005 until June 2013. He was then appointed to the Transition Team of the new English School District of the Province. He was elected Chair of the now NLESD in September 2013 and serves in that role to the present. He served as President of NLSBA 2012-2013.

During the NL Summer Games held in the towns of Carbonear/Harbour Grace he took on the role of Co-chair as his further commitment to the youth in our province.

Wade Smith

Box 156 RR1 Whitbourne, NL A0B 3K0

Email: wadecw@bellaliant.net
Phone: 709-759-2065
Twitter: @challengerbud

Wade Smith was born, raised and educated in Whitbourne/Markland, Newfoundland and Labrador.

He began his journey in the labor force in 1973 as a Laborer at the Electrical Reduction Plant in Long Harbour (ERCO), and quickly advanced his employment experience from there to heavy equipment, various production positions and on to the senior supervisory position of Furnace Control Room Operator. This position entailed overseeing the operations of the main centre for the last five years until its closure in 1989. During his time with ERCO, Wade was trained in various capacities: Safety Officer, Labor Relations and Shop Steward for the United Steel Workers of Canada. He was then employed in Calgary, Alberta for a short time, was transferred back to Newfoundland, working in St. John’s. As a result of his training in the area of emergency response in Long Harbour, Wade was able to further his skill set by gaining qualifications as an EMT/Fire Rescue Specialist. He furthered his education in 1995 at the Health Science School of Paramedicine to obtain his EMA qualification and advanced to EMA Level II until the name was changed to Paramedic. Following this, Wade accepted a position with Barrett’s Ambulance Service as an EMT until he took over the company in 1996. His company is now known province wide as Smith’s Ambulance Service and he has been President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Ambulance Operator’s Association since 2010. Prior to this, he was the Vice-President since 2003.

As a businessperson, Wade is very connected to the communities of Whitbourne and Markland and all surrounding areas, volunteering and fundraising for such causes as the Pumpkin Patrol, Red Cross Emergency Relief, first aid and CPR training for the local cadet corps, of which he was a member for many years and was the first recipient of the Outstanding Cadet Award. His long standing relationship with the army cadet movement is still evident today, as Smith’s Ambulance is the sponsor of the Leadership in First Aid award, an annual honor bestowed upon the cadet who demonstrates outstanding leadership and knowledge in an emergency setting. Wade has also provided first aid training for the Norman’s Cove Army Cadets in the past, as well as CPR training for the College of the North Atlantic Campus in Carbonear. Wade participates in and supports other worthy causes like The Ride for Sight, Ride for Dad and the School Identification Project.

Wade’s extensive knowledge of the health care system has furthered his drive to give back to his community and the surrounding areas in this field, having 23 years experience with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada as a CPR instructor and 22 years with St. John Ambulance Newfoundland and Labrador Council as an Advanced First Aid Instructor and all levels of CPR and AED training. He is currently coordinating a

Newfoundland and Labrador 911 awareness project for students to aid in the activation and promotion of the emergency system.

Wade has held numerous volunteer positions at his local church and local service district, but his greatest passion is and will always be the education of children in a safe, inclusive and accessible school system. As a member of the emergency medical field, Wade has had many an opportunity to hear concerns of people and see firsthand the need for safe and caring schools for our children, educational facilities that are safe and caring from the crosswalks to the classrooms. He sees the need for people to have a voice, a platform, a spokesperson to communicate their needs and initiate action. As a parent and grandparent, Wade has been involved with the school system in this province for the past 25 years, most recently the past ten years has been an active advocate and spokesperson on various levels in support of Whitbourne Elementary School, as Chair of Help Whitbourne Elementary Committee and their School Council, where he currently holds the position of Vice-Chairperson. Wade has developed and maintained strong ties with parents and stakeholders from all over the Trinity Shore and the province, meeting and communicating with different people at community functions, school gatherings, and the biannual meetings of the NL Federation of School Councils. He is aware of the many concerns of the children, parents and educators of the area, and of the province, and has the knowledge and experience to advocate for a more engaging process, where everyone has a voice.

In addition to his strong work ethic and dedication to his community and fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, Wade is a loving and dedicated family man and spends many hours with his loved ones, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and camping. He is married to Christine Galway, and they have two daughters: Jennifer (Rudy) employed with Fisheries and Oceans, and Kimberly (Jason) a BN with Eastern Health. They are the proud grandparents of Zachary, who is a Grade Six student at Whitbourne Elementary and who enjoys spending time playing various instruments with his grandfather, who is also an accomplished musician.

So, Why Vote For Wade?

• He wants to know what your concerns are
• supports rural education
• understands the value of a school to a community
• supports inclusive schools
• realizes importance of community consultations
• strong voice for advocacy

For more information, or to contact Wade please call 759-2065/685-2090 email wadecw@bellaliant.net on Twitter @challengerbud .There will be a polling station at Whitbourne Elementary and all surrounding schools for your convenience. They will be open from 8am – 8pm and drivers are available if you are unable to get to the polling station in your area. Voting is open to every Newfoundlander and Labradorian 18 years and older, so find your zone and cast your ballot on the 22nd of November. VOTE WADE in zone 12 and thank you in advance for your support!

Kay Crane

Shearstown, NL

Email: kaycrane2003@yahoo.ca

My name is Kay Crane and I am running for ZONE 13, for the NL School Board Election. I was born and raised on Bell Island but have been living in Shearstown for the past number of years. I attended the College of the North Atlantic, where I completed several computer/secretarial programs. I have also completed psychology courses. I have been employed with the provincial government for the past 20 years and am currently working with Motor Registration Division in Harbour Grace.

I am interest in our children’s education and how our school is governed. I have a child that attends one of the school’s in Bay Roberts and I hear the concerns that parents have every day because I have the same concerns. The school starting times, busing, and the school building themselves, these are only some of the concerns.

I would like to be the person to stand up for you and to help everyone achieve the best possible school system in Newfoundland and Labrador. Please feel free to contact me on FaceBook account or by email at kaycrane2003@yahoo.ca

Kevin Ryan

55 Front Road, Renews, NL A0A 3N0

Email: kevinjryan5656@gmail.com

Education / Career Highlights

• Graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland
• NTA Branch Exec 1979-90          
• Branch President NTA (Southern Shore)1981-84   
• Tch/Sch Bd Liason Committee 1979 - 91       
• Appointed VP at Stella Maris, Trepasssey, Sept 1991
• Appointed Principal at Stella Maris, 1997
• Exec Dir Stella Maris School Council 1997-2016
• NLESD Finance Committee 2013-14
• Retired as Principal, Stella Maris Academy, June 2016

Community Involvement

• Member Renews Cappahayden Community Council
• Mayor Renews Cappahayden Community Council
• Member Knights of Columbus
• Member of Kinsmen Club
• Member of parish council Extraordinary minister / Lay reader
• Chair of Save Our Church Properties Committee / Holy Apostles Church, Renews

It has always been my belief that the focus of every educator must be student success. This was the code I based my professional life upon. I hope now to extend my practice to review and help create policies as part of the new board of trustees and serve the children of our province from the perspective of a trustee. With support, I will be able to put my extensive experience to good use.

For years I managed the curriculum of a school with a declining enrollment. I know first hand the challenges faced by small schools and I would like the opportunity to take them on.

That being said, all sorts of challenges exist in all sorts of schools, but no matter the school population, the demographics, the dynamics, or the geography, all students in all schools expect an equitable education. I will do my part to ensure that this happens.

Eric A. Snow

Email: easnow@personainternet.com

Eric is pleased to offer himself as a candidate for trustee in Zone 13 with the Newfoundland and Labrador English School Board. He is a Certified Residential Property Appraiser with Appraisal Associates Ltd. and has worked in this capacity throughout this region for over 26 years.

As a passionate and committed community volunteer, Eric has been involved in some capacity with education for over 30 years. His early years as a volunteer on Parent Teacher Associations, School Councils and School Fundraising Committees motivated him to offer himself as a School Board Trustee.

Eric was first elected as a School Board Trustee with the Avalon West School Board in 2001.  From 2005 to 2013, he was the elected representative for Zone 7 with the Eastern School District of Newfoundland and Labrador.  In 2013, he was appointed to the Transition Team with the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District.

Throughout his tenure as a trustee, Eric has been a member of the Executive Committee and The Educational Foundation.  He has also held the positions of Vice Chair of the Boards, Chair of the Finance and Properties Committee and Board Representative for the Newfoundland and Labrador School Boards Association.

At the local level, Eric is currently President of the Trinity-Conception Kiwanis Music Festival and Vice President of the Kiwanis Club of Carbonear.

 

Eric is committed to diligently working with all stakeholders in a collaborative and supportive environment to provide leadership which is in the best interest of students and which focuses on providing the best educational outcomes for all students of our province.

He looks forward to your support on November 22.

Jennifer Aspell

Email: j_aspell@hotmail.com
Phone: (709) 238-0096
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VoteJenniferAspell/

Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world!

Jennifer Aspell was raised in Witless Bay and resides there with her husband Mark and children Heidi (12) and Zachary (7). 

Ms. Aspell has been a vocal advocate for quality education and has been involved directly with school development through the St. Bernard’s School Council.  Jennifer has been a community and parent representative on the Council, also having served as Co-Chair and Chair.  She has played an integral role in issues surrounding air quality, space capacity, and student achievement.  She has worked diligently to create awareness at the NLESD and Department of Education on critical issues affecting education in her area. 

Jennifer believes in sound decision making based on research and open communication.  She values transparency and the inclusion of stakeholders.  She believes that our current education system requires significant improvement and is dedicated to ensuring all children in Newfoundland and Labrador are provided with the proper resources for a quality education. 

Jennifer has worked in a variety of leadership and project management roles in the public, private and non-profit sectors and has also been involved with various industry associations and community organizations  at the Board and Committee level.   She is confident that her personal skills combined with her understanding of current challenges and her experience in governance will bring value to the NLESD Board of Trustees.

Jennifer welcomes correspondence and questions from voters and can be reached by emailing j_aspell@hotmail.com or through her Facebook page Vote Jennifer Aspell for School Board Trustee.

Keith Culleton

Moss Heather Drive, St. John's, NL

Email: nlpartybus@gmail.com
Phone: (709) 726-3197

I have been a teacher in the correctional as well as the public school systems. To say I am passionate about children would be an understatement. I have dedicated my entire adult life to the betterment of our greatest assets, our children.

My business life has afforded me the opportunity to be directly involved with many charities, donating many hours and many thousands of dollars to such organizations as Children's Wish, Ronald McDonald House and Guides of NL. 

After spending six consecutive years on Larkhall Academy School Council I have become very familiar with the issues facing our education system, more specifically zone fifteen. What is lacking most is an open line of communication between parents, schools and government.  As a father of a grade seven child,  I am well aware of current issues and concerns that need to be addressed by someone who is not afraid to take them on. As a former teacher I am aware of the pressures placed on school staff as well as the fear these teachers face if they were to express their concerns in a way deemed inappropriate.

It's time for change, it's time for accountability and transparency. I am NOT afraid to hold anyone's feet to the fire on important issues and you won't find a greater advocate for children's safety and education. 

If elected I promise to fulfill my mandate and go above and beyond to represent the needs of zone fifteen.

Please feel free to contact me with any issues or concerns.

Cyril Hayden

811 St. Thomas Line, Portugal Cove/St. Philip's

Email: cmhayden@nl.rogers.com
Phone: (709) 895-3451
Twitter: @CyrilLHayden

Education

• Vocational Education from Memorial University of Newfoundland
• Journey Person Certificate in Welding (Red Seal)
• Journey Person Certificate in Industrial Mechanic (Red Seal)

Work Experience

• General Manager of Air Liquide for Newfoundland and Labrador (Retired)
• Provincial Welding Advisory Committee
• Interprovincial Examining Committee for Welding
• Current member of the Welding Examining Committee (Red Seal)

Community Involvement

• Past Scout Master with Boy Scouts
• Past President of Avalon Minor and Junior Hockey
• Volunteered with Minor Soccer (Coach)
• Past Member of the Canadian Cancer Society Board
• Past Member and Chair of the Avalon East School Board
• Past chair of Avalon East Educational Foundation
• Currently chair of the School Lunch Association

I will work for

• Communication from the bottom up (School Councils and Teachers), not top down (Department of Education)
• More professional development for teachers
• Inclusive education
• More classroom resources
• Lower pupil-teacher ratio
• Community centered schools

Ken Kavanagh

Lance Cove Road, Bell Island

Email: kkavanaghnlesd@gmail.com
Phone: 709-488-2221
Twitter: @KenJKavanagh

I am the eldest of 15 brothers and sisters and the father of 1 daughter and 3 sons.

I grew up and presently live on Bell Island. Having obtained a B.A and a B.Ed from MUN, I was a high school teacher in my home community for 30 years. Since my retirement in 2001, I have been working most of the time with various non-profits in St. John’s. As well as being a Project Co-ordinator for an Alternative School initiative, I developed and delivered a literacy and essential skills program. I also managed a micro-business loan program and am presently an Employment Case Manager for a supportive employment program with CMHA. I also spent 11 years in the Royal Newfoundland regiment and attained the rank of Captain.

My volunteer involvement has been both long term and extensive. I have given my time and passion at the community, provincial, regional, national and international levels and in most cases, it has been in a leadership role. I am the founding president of 3 Bell Island organizations. I have been President of the NL Federation of Co-operatives and the Northeast Avalon Regional Economic Development Board. I presently sit on the national Board of the Council of Canadians. My volunteer life provided me with wonderful opportunities to present on overfishing at an International Co-operative Alliance meeting in Madrid, Spain; to participate in a community development exchange with Belize, Central America; and to participate in a co-operative development exchange with the Philippines.

After my 30 years teaching, I was elected as a trustee in 2002 for Avalon East School District. My term was cut short in 2004 when School Boards were reduced from 10 to 4. In 2006, working for a local Coalition for Educational Opportunities (Thrive), I wrote a major project proposal called “All Children Learn: All Children Succeed” for an alternative school for dropouts.

As well as having extensive experience serving on all manner of non-profit and co-op boards at all levels, I have been facilitating “Organizational Governance” workshops around the province since 2001. Combined with my interest and passion for education and along with my strengths and values, I believe I have the knowledge and experience to be an effective trustee.

Ryan Murphy

Email: ryanjamurphy@gmail.com
Website: ryanjamurphy.com
Twitter: @ryanjamurphy Facebook: http://facebook.com/helloRyanJAMurphy

I’m honoured to be a candidate for Zone 15 in the 2016 English School District Elections. I’m a 27 year old Torbay native happily settled on Old Topsail Road with my fiancée, Alison, a resident in Internal Medicine. I recently returned from a year of study in Toronto, where I completed a Master’s Degree at the Ontario College of Art and Design. My studies focused on strategies to improve education systems.

As a trustee, I would bring a decade of provincial and national experience in education and governance. My experiences and achievements include:

• Directorship at Radhoc Youth Leadership, where I organized leadership conferences for high school students from across the province.
• Multiple roles on the Board of the MUN Students' Union, serving 14,000 students on MUN's St. John's campus.
• Representing students on the Board of Governors of OCAD University in Toronto.
• Leading a national movement encouraging innovation in higher education at hackED.
• Creating and facilitating programs in leadership and innovation at Memorial University.
• Organizing Eastern Edge Gallery’s HOLD FAST Festival of Contemporary Art.
• Organizing national conferences with Engineers Without Borders – Canada.
• Organizing some of Startup NL’s first Startup Weekend events.
• An inaugural member of SOLVE, a conference and global network at MIT focused on solving the world’s most important challenges.
• Speaker at TEDxStJohns in 2013.

I believe that education is the rising tide that lifts all boats. Strong schools foster opportunity for all of our students while advancing knowledge, health, compassion, culture, innovation, and citizenship in our province.

The problem is that our schools are not as strong as they could be. Educators struggle to manage unwieldy class sizes while trying to supply their own classroom materials. Student needs grow increasingly diverse while schools remain under-supported, unable to serve them.

Meanwhile, we need to be more accountable to Newfoundland and Labrador’s parents – and to the public. From underserviced buses to a lack of consultation on administrative changes to vacant buildings around the city, we need to find a better way to proactively communicate issues, share our decisions, and listen to what the public has to say.

Technology can help us do all of these things, but we need to be smart about how we integrate technology into our classrooms, schools, and budgets. Moreover, as the devices on our desks and in our pockets (and our students’ desks and pockets) become more capable, we need to be better about learning to use them, from learning to code to safe browsing.

I’m running for Trustee because I am passionate and committed to fostering strong schools for a strong province by supporting teachers and learners.

To find out more about me or to get in touch, visit ryanjamurphy.com or connect with me on Facebook or Twitter.

Matthew Della Valle

Email: matthewdellavallezone15@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MatthewDellaValleForZone15/

Matthew Della Valle has been a community volunteer and community social activist for a better part of his life here in this beautiful province of Newfoundland & Labrador.

Matthew currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at Rabbittown Community Centre in St. John's.

Matthew has always been outspoken about the many issues that affect the people and has worked tirelessly to find solutions to many issues that affect the community at large and his home province. 

The many volunteer positions and work that he has done, has given him a great deal of insight and experience into the issues that affect our daily lives, such Serving as a Member At Large, A Parent and Community representative, as well as being the Chair of the St. Andrews Elementary School Counsel in 2010. 

He continues to volunteer on an ongoing basis in the community, and in particular at the Rabbittown Community Center, from helping staff with managing various events, to a Member at large, Treasurer, Vice Chair and Chair of its board of directors. 

Matthew also served on the Rabbittown Community Association as a Member at Large, Vice-chair and Chair and is well respected by many of his peers. 

A genuine and deeply passionate person who truly cares about people their well-being, Matthew truly believes in solutions for a richer more diverse educational system that is fully inclusive and offers the best opportunities for all of our children. His dedication to the issues that affect society in general is what sets him apart and makes him a natural choice to serve as a trustee for Zone 15.

Matthew is a man of integrity, a natural leader, and well-rounded individual who truly lives with passion, dedication, and being of service!

"I would be honored to serve the children and parents teachers and Staff of Zone 15, and be part of the solutions that we need to find for our education system. For Further Information please my facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MatthewDellaValleForZone15/ or my email at matthewdellavallezone15@gmail.com

Jenn Deon

11 Bavidge Street, St. John’s, NL

Email: jenndeon@gmail.com
Phone: 709-743-7287
Twitter: @jenndeon
Hashtag: #JennDeon4Zone16
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jenndeonZone16/
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/jenndeon
Website: www.jenndeon.ca

Jenn is a 45-year-old small business owner, community volunteer and advocate.  She was born in Toronto and attended York University before becoming a proud NBC (Newfoundlander By Choice) in ’92 and continuing her studies at Memorial University and the Gardiner Centre for Business.

Professionally, Jenn is an accredited professional communicator who has worked with public and non-profit employers in sectors such as education, health care, fisheries, youth and heritage. In 2012, Jenn expanded her independent business activity to full time practice under Jenn Deon Consulting Inc., a marketing and communications consultancy. Her clients have included CBC NL; Eurocopter; Futures in Newfoundland and Labrador’s Youth (FINALY); Johnson Inc.; Kids Eat Smart Foundation; The Little Gym; Memorial University; and the RCMP NL.

Giving back has always been an important part of Jenn’s life. Jenn’s leadership and board experience include YWCA-St. John's (treasurer), the NL NDP Executive (treasurer), the Shakespeare by the Sea Festival (chair and artistic director), Perchance Theatre at Cupids, the Royal Canadian Legion - Branch 56, Kids in Safe Seats, and the Resource Centre for the Arts. In 2013, Jenn was honoured with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in recognition of her long-standing contributions as a volunteer in the local community.

Jenn is a member of the Brother Rice Junior High School Council and is a founder of both the Brother Rice Junior High and Bishop Feild Elementary Schools' Parents Groups. (She also ran the after-school Drama Club at Bishop Feild.)

Jenn is married to Dave Walsh, a Language Arts teacher at Macdonald Drive Junior High school. Jenn and Dave live in the East End of St. John's with their teen-aged son John, Dave's mom Rita (a former teacher at Holy Heart), and their two dogs, Penny and Muffin.  Jenn's parents, Fran and Rod Deon, have been married for 69 years and are also a big part of Jenn’s daily life.

“As the wife of a teacher, and the parent of a student, our schools are a big part of my life. I am concerned that our education system is nearing a breaking point due to budget cuts - too many schools being asked to do more with less - to the detriment of our children. Classroom allocations need to be reexamined in order to make education truly inclusive for all students.”

If elected:

• I will listen to the school communities of Zone 16 - comprised of over 7,500 students, and their parents, teachers, administrators and others who work in and use our schools.
• I will be honest and open with all of my activities and decisions as a Trustee.
• I will share information, news and truth concerning our schools.
• I will work to find a better balance between fiscal realities and the needs of teachers and students to help ensure the education system in Newfoundland and Labrador is second to none.

For more information on Jenn, please visit her LinkedIn page and her candidate website at www.jenndeon.ca.

Millicent Hicks

398 Pine Line, Torbay NL A1K 1A2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Zone16mhicks/
Email: millicenthicks@hotmail.com
Twitter: @MillicenthicksM
Instagram: millicenthicks398
Website: www.millicenthicks.com

Life Places/Education:

Millicent grew up in the central NL town of Glovertown. She went on to pursue Post Secondary schooling in St. John’s. From there she worked in Ramea, Glovertown and various communities in Ontario and Nova Scotia until settling back at home in St. John’s to start her family. Millicent has been a lifelong learner in her field. She takes every opportunity to learn and pass that on to her clients. She intends to apply these same skills to the students and parents that she serves.

Career:

Millicent has had a long career in the banking world. She has worked with the Credit Union, TD Bank, TD Waterhouse and ScotiaMcLeod. Millicent is familiar with working from the ground up and is no stranger to hard work. In 2013 she was recruited by ScotiaMcLeod for her current role of Wealth Advisor.

Community:

Millicent has a passion to serve both her local and abroad communities. She has worked with many organizations over the years, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, YACC, The Janeway Telethon, Bust a Move, The Children’s Wish Foundation, and an organization that is near and dear to her heart…her children’s charity called “Cousins for Change” under the well-known “Me to We” platform. Millicent currently serves many community groups such as NLOWE, The ExtraOrdinary Women (TEW), The Board of Trade, Scotiabank’s Women in Leadership, the NL District Council of IIROC, and Kids Eat Smart. Millicent’s family also supports the NL Foster Family Association by providing respite foster care to children in need. This experience has been awe inspiring and helps to recognize the needs of everyone in her community.

Achievements:

Most recently, Millicent won “Advisor of the Year” (<10yrs tenure) with ScotiaMcLeod. This award recognizes her commitment to growth, forward thinking, client feedback and professional acumen. 4 advisors in Canada were recognized in this category.

Leadership:

Millicent’s leadership style is one of positivity and productivity. She is a person you can rely on to get the job done as effectively and efficiently as possible. She excels in the area of collaboration and communication.

Why serve on the board?

Millicent is a doer. She has the tools to help and therefore feels it is her duty to do so. She would like your vote to propel this province into the next generation of learning. With two children in the public school system she has a vested interest in seeing our schools provide top notch quality learning and an agenda that serves this purpose. Millicent is ready to listen, to be heard and to communicate. It is time for new blood, fresh perspectives and board members that represent the needs of 2016 onward.

Patrick Martin

14 Argus Place, St. John’s, NL A1A 5N2

Email: patrick@plumcreativeworks.com
Phone: 709.727.3703
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PatrickMartinNL
Twitter: @PatrickMartinNL
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/patrickmartinnl

My name is Patrick Martin and I am running in Zone 16 for a position on the English school board. I am from a small outport community called LaScie and have lived in St. John`s since 1989, when I started University. I have a B.Sc. in Computer Science and a B.A in Philosophy, with additional education in mathematics, statistics, business, and logic (and some post-graduate education).

I currently have 2 children in the school system – Connor in Grade 3 and Samara in Kindergarten. I have 2 younger children that will be starting school in the next few years – three year old Kenzi and one year old Tira. Their education and their support are paramount to me. And since one of my children has Autism I am even more concerned about their educational needs.

I initially worked for the Memorial University in a number of technical and educational positions prior to starting my own company. I started a small local company currently called Plum Creative Works in 1998 that employs 5 people. For the past 18 years I have managed this company that has provided creative design, technical support, strategy development, and marketing throughout Canada and the US.

 I have been married for nearly 10 years to an amazing woman called Marlene. It is only with her support that I have been able to dedicate myself in service for this community. The opportunity to provide my skills to non-profit boards and organizations throughout St. John`s has been amazing and I truly hope that I am able to do so for the English school board.

I have a strong background in management, governance, HR, marketing, finance, communications, and business. I have been fortunate to serve on over two dozen local and national boards and committee as both a regular member role and in executive and leadership roles in the past 15 years. I am currently part of the Rotary Club of St. John`s, on the board of the Autism Society and the local Canadian Mental Health Association board.  Volunteering and Service are big parts of my life.

I believe in our school system. I am committed to ensuring that my children, and other children, receive the best education that it is possible for us to provide.  I realize that there are a number of challenges facing our school board. I know of many concerns regarding class sizes, full day kindergarten, and adequate resources. I will promote the highest caliber of teaching, support learning experience that maximize each child`s potential, ensure the best possible resources available, while remaining fiscally responsible and prudent.

I feel that my board knowledge, business background, strong work experience and varied educational background make me the right candidate for the English school board in Zone 16. I understand the time requirements and what it means to be a school board member. I take this commitment seriously and I am prepared to give of my time and experience to do my best for our school board. I would appreciate any support.

Peter Whittle

Email: peterlwhittle@gmail.com
Phone: 709-576-2330
Website: www.edumatters.ca

Peter is first and foremost a father of three teenage boys - Aidan 16, Liam 14 and Conor 13. He is married to Kristine Summers, a primary teacher. Our family resides in the East End of St. John’s

He is a passionate volunteer and is dedicated to the community in which he lives. In April 2016, he received a Certificate of Appreciation from Premier Ball in recognition of his community contribution and volunteer service.

Peter is well known and outspoken on public issues, particularly on education issues in his community and the province. 

His  policy, communication and advocacy background spans 30 years in the fields of strategic planning, budgeting, special event planning, public administration, journalism, public relations, social media, dispute resolution, project management, media and government relations. 

Peter is a self-employed communications professional, researcher and project manager.He provides trusted communication advice to a number of private, public and not-for-profit organizations.

Peter  grew up in St. Bernard’s Fortune Bay. He studied Journalism at the Bay St. George Community College in Stephenville (CONA), earned a BA (Political Science and History), certificates in Municipal and Public Administration from Memorial University.  He is currently trying to find time to work on farthing his academics. He has been accepted for a Masters of Employment Relations, Memorial University. 

Peter has chaired school councils at Virginia Park Elementary and St. Paul's Junior High where remains a member of the council. He continues his long time connection to Virginia Park Elementary where he volunteers with the school breakfast program. 

He has been involved in teaching kids chess, public speaking and volunteering to judge science and heritage fairs. Peter is a past president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of School Councils where he served in various executive roles and participated in numerous consultations with educational stakeholders.

Among his past volunteer activities he has served on many boards and service group executives including: The Virginia Park Community Center, The Health Science Lions Club, Terra Nova Toastmaster, St. Paul's Knights of Columbus (former Grand Knight), St. Paul's Parish, Friends of Victoria Park, St. John's Clean and Beautiful and the Colony of the Avalon.

Derek Samuel Winsor

168 Forest Road, St. John’s, NL

Email: dwinsor@tpi.ca
Phone: 709-728-8803
Twitter: @Derek1958

Life Places

I grew up in St. John’s and attended school in my neighborhood. (Curtis Elementary, United Junior High and Bishops College)

I am train in Community Recreation and have worked for number employers. The most recent was Bridges To Hope and presently operate my own business E and B Travel Service.

Education

Graduate of Community Recreation Leadership from College of the North Atlantic

Community involvement

I am a member of the Rotary Club of St. John’s and the St. John’s Board of Trade.

Accomplishments

In 2009 I was honored and award the True Rotarian Award and in 2016 I was named the Travel Agent of the Year by Trafalgar Canada.

Leadership

I have taken on many leadership roles over the past 20 years. Includes Chair of School Councils and coaching roles.

Interest in Education

I have been interested in education for the past 30 years. I have served on school councils and in 2005 I was elected to the Eastern School Board.

I served as chair of Finance Committee and Vice-Chair of the Educational Foundation.

I believe educational governance should be based on the needs of the students while at the same time acting a responsible steward of the financial budget. The education system if owned by the stakeholders and there has to be an open and transparent line of communications.

Charlene Blake

Conception Bay South

Email: charlenezone17@outlook.com
Facebook: fb.me/charlenezone17
Facebook Messenger: m.me/charlenezone17

With so many issues in our education system at the present time, and no real vision in place for the future, I have decided it is time for me to get involved. Our education system needs fresh strong voices to bring about positives changes for the benefit of the future of our Province. The future of Newfoundland and Labrador is our children. And the time to start is NOW!

I was born on the Northern Peninsula, and lived in the community of Croque for the majority of my life. I graduated from St. Joseph’s All-Grade School, where I first experienced multi-grade classrooms and distance education. When I was ten, my family moved to Corner Brook, where I was exposed to a much larger school with large one-grade classrooms, guidance counsellors, and a busy principal’s office. I spent four years in Corner Brook before returning to Croque to finish high school.

After high school, I returned to Corner Brook. I worked there while completing two years of Business Administration – Accounting, followed by two years studying as a Computer Support Specialist. After graduating from post-secondary, I moved to Ottawa, Ontario. I gained valuable work experience with a large printing company and MD financial as a computer operator. After the birth of my first child, I moved back to Corner Brook and opened a registered home daycare. When my second child was born, my husband was spending long periods working away; I decided to focus on being a stay at home mom. Since then we have welcomed a third child and our happy family is complete.

I am a very honest and outspoken individual who has strong opinions on the way we need to educate our children. The issues are serious and they are many. I intend to work with parents, educators, and students, to ensure that we provide the best possible environment and education outcomes for our children, teachers, faculty, and for our province.

Margaret Corcoran

115 Scotts Rd South, CBS, NL A1X 6M1

Email: margaretcorcoran@gmail.com
Phone: (709)744-1947
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trusteeelectionszone17

I grew up in the small community of Riverhead in St. Mary’s Bay and attended Dunne Memorial Primary and Dunne Memorial Academy until I graduated in 2002.

I moved to St. John’s and attended Memorial University from 2002 until 2007, and received my Bachelor of Science degree. My major was physics and my minor was mathematics. I was accepted into the School of Education at Memorial following graduation but decided I wasn’t cut out to be a teacher.

My career has taken me into the field of risk analysis and currently privacy protection. I am the Privacy Manager at the Centre for Health Information.

I am the proud mommy to two little girls, 4 and 18 months. My oldest daughter will be starting kinderstart in the near future and full day kindergarten in Sept 2017.

My interest in becoming a trustee for zone 17 of the English School stems from the fact that I will soon have children entering the education system. I believe that by providing guidance to the school board we can influence change for our children. I firmly believe that children do not all learn in the same manner, and that the best approach for ensuring each child is successful is to understand how to best help each child learn. I feel the best way to accomplish this, is to influence change from the beginning, and starting with policy and guidance to the School Board. Further I believe that collaboration is the only way to achieve change, together we can unite our voices to bring our concerns to the appropriate venue.

John Smith

Tobin’s Road, Conception Bay South

Email: j_smith@nf.sympatico.ca
Phone: 709-727-5457

Life places

I grew up in Grand Bank, where I attended Partanna Academy and John Burke High School, Nova Scotia (while in Navy) and moved to Conception Bay South.

Education

College of the North Atlantic: Security and Occupational Health and Safety programs.

Career/work

I grew up in a family run business that included a hotel, restaurant, gas station and lounge. This type of work helped shape the person I am today and was the basis of my work ethic instilled in me by my parents. After a number of high school jobs, upon graduation I chose to join the Canadian Armed Forces (Navy). After an Honourable Discharge from the Navy, I was a professional Photographer and Occupational Health and Safety Consultant. Today I am Executive Director of the Conception Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.

Community involvement

• Queen Elizabeth Regional High School
• School Council 2009-Present (Community Representative and Chairperson)
• UnderWater Robotics Mentor 2010-Present, RC Boat Race Mentor 2012-Present, Kids Eat Smart Program 2013-2015 (Coordinator), Christmas at QE Craft Fair 2012-2014 (Coordinator), 3HR Challenge 2009-2015, Children’s Wish Walk 2010-2011 (co-chair), Green and Gorgeous Committee 2009-2010
• Frank Roberts Junior High
• School Council 2005-2013 (Parent/Community Representative and Chairperson)
• UnderWater Robotics 2010-2011 (Mentor),Clean and Beautiful 2009-2010, Safe and Caring School Committee (2007)
• NL Federation of School Councils 2006-2011 (1st Vice-President and President)
• Manuals River Interpretation Center Special Events Committee, 2014-Present
• 2016 NL Summer Games Volunteer Committee and Dispatcher for courtesy vehicles
• Conception Bay South Main Street Business Improvement Association Ex-Officio Director 2016-Present

Accomplishments/achievements

Here are a few things I have been honoured to be a part of:

• NL Summer Games CBS 2016 Torch Relay Bearer on August 6, 2016
• Participated in the 25th Anniversary Rick Hansen Relay on August 26, 2011
• Won a number of awards as Mentor to the UnderWater Robotics Teams

Leadership experience

Over 10 years as School Council Chairperson at Frank Roberts Junior High and Queen Elizabeth Regional High. My current and former executive positions with the Conception Bay South Main Street Business Improvement Association, Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of School Councils, St. John’s Rod and Gun Club, The Hub, and Kilbride Housing Co-operative Society Ltd. and the many events I’ve coordinated for various worthy causes.

Interest/involvement in education and school governance

My interest started with my child attending school and being a part of the process so I understood what was required of her to succeed in academics. My involvement with school governance really began when I was elected parent representative at Frank Roberts Junior High. While my daughter didn’t attended Queen Elizabeth Regional High, I thought it was important as Chairperson of Frank Roberts School Council to work with our feeder school council. I requested to serve as community representative there and I was honored to be voted in as chairperson. Volunteering with both schools, I have had the pleasure of observing the hardworking administration staff, teachers and amazing students and feel I can bring the issues forward in a collaborative manner.

Anne-Marie Sullivan

37 Joshwill Cres, CBS, NL, A1X 7E2

Email: asulliva@mun.ca
Phone: 709.764.4453

I reside in Zone 17 of the English school district. I grew up in St. John’s and left NL to pursue a degree in Recreation & Leisure Studies at Dalhousie University, my masters degree, also in Recreation and Leisure Studies was completed at the University of Waterloo. I then completed my PhD in Family Relations and Human Development before coming home to NL to take a position in the School of Human Kinetics & Recreation (SHKR) at Memorial University. I have been employed as a faculty member at the university since 2002 and contribute to teaching and research in healthy living, physical activity and recreation therapy. I am presently looking at the importance of physical literacy for children and their parents. I sit as a committee member on the Inclusion Advisory Council for Recreation NL and the Committee on Recreation and Sport for Persons with Disabilities. I have also volunteered as a coach with the CBS Soccer Association and I have volunteered at St. Edwards where my children go to school.

I have had several leadership opportunities in my role at the university by chairing a number of committees and working groups in my unit. Currently I am in the Acting Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research within the SHKR and am responsible for all aspects of our graduate programs and research activities among the faculty.

Although I value my professional life, the most important role I hold is that of a parent. I am a mom to three school-aged daughters and I very much want to have a voice in their education and the education of other children in our province. As a parent I have a strong understanding of the challenges facing families in today’s society and I understand that there are some policies that need to be carefully examined. I think that we need to look closely at class sizes, inclusion policies to ensure that all children are provided with all supports they need to be successful,