RICHARD’S PRIORITIES
Putting Students at the Centre of Every Decision.
Richard’s priorities are grounded in more than two decades of direct experience working with students and families in our School District. He believes strong public education requires thoughtful decisions, open communication and a commitment to ensuring every student has the support and opportunity they need to succeed.
“Is this in the best interest of our students?”
ADVOCATING FOR STRONG PUBLIC EDUCATION
Funding & Advocacy
Per-student funding remains one of the most important issues facing public education. Growing communities, changing classroom needs and increasing demands on educators and support staff require thoughtful planning and strong advocacy.
As a Trustee, Richard will work collaboratively with the Board to advocate for funding solutions that give students, teachers and support staff the resources they need.
His approach will be grounded in what he has seen firsthand throughout more than two decades working within our local schools: decisions about resources ultimately affect real students, families and classrooms.
Richard’s focus:
Strong advocacy, responsible decision-making and ensuring student needs remain at the centre of funding discussions.
SAFE, INCLUSIVE & WELCOMING SCHOOLS
Belonging & Safety
Every student deserves to feel safe, welcomed and that they belong at school.
Richard believes strong schools are built when students, families, educators, support staff and community partners work together to create environments where young people can learn and thrive.
His years supporting students and families, including his work as an Indigenous Student Advocate and the School District’s first Indigenous Wellness Worker, have shown him the importance of listening carefully to the experiences of students and ensuring their voices are part of the conversation.
Richard’s focus:
Schools where students feel safe, supported, respected and heard.
OPEN COMMUNICATION
Transparency & Accessibility
Families, employees and members of our community deserve clear and timely communication from the people representing them.
Richard believes Trustees should be approachable, visible and willing to listen. Good leadership also means explaining how and why decisions are made, asking difficult questions and helping people connect with the appropriate resources and supports when concerns arise.
Richard wants families and community members to know they have someone at the Board table who will listen carefully and take their concerns seriously.
Richard’s focus: Listen first, communicate clearly and remain accessible to the community.
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE
Success & Opportunity
Students need opportunities to succeed academically while also developing into capable, confident and lifelong learners.
Richard supports educational opportunities that recognize that success can take many forms. This includes strong academics as well as trades, technology, athletics, hands-on learning and career pathways that help students discover their strengths and potential.
Schools should help prepare young people not only for graduation, but for the opportunities and responsibilities that come afterward.
Richard’s focus: Helping students discover pathways that allow them to learn, grow and build a strong future.
STUDENTS FIRST
One Question Guides Them All.
“Is this in the best interest of our students?”
For Richard, priorities are not simply campaign talking points. They reflect the question he believes Trustees should continually return to when considering policy, funding, programs and the future of our schools.
Behind every decision is a student, family, teacher or support worker whose life may be affected.
Richard believes good governance means listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, working collaboratively and keeping students at the centre of the conversation.