Compared to the rest of BC, our district is below average on graduation rates, students’ mental well-being and poverty levels. These realities have serious repercussions on our students’ lives, their families and the community. These struggles are real. I see these issues as an opportunity for a new strategy toward positive changes.
I believe this strategy should be implemented in all age groups, from pre-kindergarten to post-secondary. Some focuses would include:
Specific volunteer opportunities related to individual strengths or interests (shorter practicums, more specialized tasks, more than entry level experiences);
New courses to prepare for independent lives (resumé building, family budgeting, emergency planning, risk management);
Improved family resources (before and after school care, funded extra-curricular activities, assistance navigating funding programs, district wide meal programs);
Increased support for educators (clear navigation for information, clear communication platform, specific policies and procedures [i.e. bully management]);
Local businesses (who are interested in building loyalty from the youth of our community).
Our district has added many valuable programs recently, and I would like to add to those initiatives, and make sure the information is clearly communicated to the community.
With decades of entrepreneurship and coaching diverse teams, I am no stranger to facing unique challenges or battling through regulated procedures. I want to help those who need it and improve the platform that will prepare our students to become confident, independent adults.
Please support me, so I can support you.
~ Serena Gill
The upcoming Powell River Board of Education school trustee by-election will be held on April 24. Polling stations at Kelly Creek Community School, Westview Elementary School and James Thomson Elementary School will be open from 8 am to 8 pm.
There will also be advanced voting on April 14 and 21 at the school board office, 4351 Ontario Avenue, also between 8 am and 8 pm.
For more information, go to sd47.bc.ca or contact chief election officer Cathy Greiner at 604.485.7744, or [email protected].
