The Quesnel Observer asked all SD28 candidates the same four questions. They were limited to 300 words.
Donelly Clement declined to participate, while the remaining 12 candidates provided answers to these questions: A. Can you tell us a bit about yourself? B. What prompted you to run for school board? C. What do you feel are some of the challenges/concerns facing School District 28? D. How do you plan to address those challenges? E. What are a few fun facts about yourself?
A. Last year, I retired from fifteen years working as an education assistant in the Nanaimo school district. My spouse and I relocated to Quesnel, and we love it here! Our daughter attends university back east.
B. I’m running for school board trustee, as in addition to the school system, I worked in foster care, and in the trenches alongside vulnerable, troubled and special needs youth. I believe it takes a village to raise a child and that every child has a unique gift and life purpose.
C. I suspect Quesnel, faces similar challenges as my prior community, such as funding for support regarding students living in poverty, trauma and requiring support for learning/social challenges, inclusion and restitution.
I believe that one of the biggest challenges is the post-traumatic effects of the past two years. Anxiety among children has greatly increased and it’s time to heal with taught coping and social skills to help them successfully, navigate the curriculum and have a sense of connection in their community.
D. I plan to address those challenges by listening and being open-minded. I commit to seeking funding plus using economical and practical measures to generate additional support and necessary tools.
E. I became a published author in 2018, in a best-selling women’s compilation by a best-selling Canadian author titled “Simply woman.”
My story is about growing up in a loving but tumultuous home, filled with classic rock and sumptuous meals, in which my parents sheltered approximately forty-four troubled youth and young adults over three decades.
My bio headshot, taken by a local talented high school teacher, led to finding an agent and working in the growing film industry on Vancouver Island. I have appeared as background, in many Hallmark movies and series, such as Chesapeake Shores and Resident alien.
Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: rebecca.dyok@quesnelobserver.com
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