One candidate running in the Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools division 3 election already has trustee experience.
Paula Lamoureux, a six year resident of the area who currently works as development officer for the summer villages and as special projects coordinator, has experience as a school board trustee, which motivated her to run in this election.
“First of all, education is very important,’ she said by phone Oct. 14. Lamoureux said both education and healthcare are major issues in Alberta, and she wants to be an advocate. Lamoureux provided the Pipestone Flyer with a platform statement.
“Why I am running for school board trustee: I have lived in the area for the last 6 years with my significant other and my son who just graduated last year and have been through the whole education process.
“Health and Education are the main issues facing Alberta right now as well as an unsettled government. I want to be an advocate that holds the government accountable in making sure that we are receiving proper funding to provide that best educational experiences for all students.
“I have previous experience as a trustee so am familiar with governance, policy, structure, budgets, strategic planning, board relations and intergovernmental relationships. I strongly believe in inclusion and that every student deserves best learning practices.
“I am fiscally responsible and want to make sure that all allocated funds are distributed in a way that benefits all student learning.
“I believe in the democratic process and will address concerns from parents. I make decisions and vote based on community in mind, common sense, facts, but most importantly- what is best for the students.
“Having experience will enable me to carry on with board initiatives while waiting on a more stable government,” she stated.
Lamoureux expanded on her budget concerns. She said, from her previous experience, money goes into the central office that could do more if it went to classrooms. “That is my main issue,” she said. “I just want to make sure all the funds coming into the division are allocated…that every dollar spent is benefitting students.”
Looking at the three-way race for trustee, Lamoureux said she feels her experience as a trustee sets her apart. She said she is familiar with the way school boards operate and, if elected, would be able to jump in and contribute fairly quickly.
She said it’s important to keep in mind the most important part of education: students. “What’s going to benefit them?” she said.
A candidate’s forum will be held Oct. 27 at Pigeon Lake School. The forum starts at 7 p.m. All candidates have confirmed they are attending.
The trustee election for WRPS division 3, including Pipestone, Lakedell, Falun and Pigeon Lake areas, will be held Nov. 2.