Winnipeg Election 2018

Bryan Metcalfe - St. James - Assiniboia - Silver Heights - Booth

Why did you decide to run in the 2018 (Winnipeg Civic Election / School Board Election)?

I first learned the value of giving back to my community through years of enjoyable volunteer time coaching two boys on numerous St. James hockey, soccer and flag football teams.  As I progressed through my personal and professional development, I spent many years volunteering and leading numerous boards:

• Junior Achievement Manitoba (Past Chair)
• Woodhaven Community Club (Past President, Coach and Convenor)
• St. James Business Improvement Zone (Former Executive Director)
• St. James Assiniboia 55+ Centre (Former Executive Director)

As an experienced business leader I first became a Trustee for the St. James Assiniboia School Division from 2010 – 2014 through a desire to share my time, experience and education with the School system that helped me go on to achieve a degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Manitoba.  After being married for 27 years and raising two sons, I felt I could have a positive impact on the education of future St. James children if elected for a Board position.  After 4 years of being in this position, I learned first hand that my education and experience was very helpful in this capacity so I am campaigning to do this once again.

What experience will you bring to complement your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee)?

After years of successful business management experience, I went on to become a:

• Publisher, Naylor Association Solutions
• Publisher and GM, Auto Trader Canada
• Publisher and GM, Canstar Community Newspapers

I was responsible for multi-million dollar budgets that has been very useful when dealing with the significant budget issues that come up for all the schools and administration that are a part of the school division.  My Accounting and Finance education helped me learn how to control costs and be a part of a team leading numerous staff and departments.  This experience was very helpful when participating on all of the committees that were a part of my 4 years as a School Board Trustee – Retirement Plan (chair), Education, Finance & Facilities, Personnel, Marketing and union negotiation committees.  Learning about becoming a strong leader meant learning to be a good servant and communicator to those I represent and work with.  This background taught me the importance of connecting and engaging with as many Parent Council groups, School and community events and local organizations (such as representing the School Board at the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce and St. James Neighborhood Resource Network).

 

What are some issues that you would like to stand for in your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee), and why are these issues important to you?

I believe in a school board with strong connections to St. James Assiniboia residents, these connections will translate to a community that is more informed about how the school board and administration are educating the children of St. James.  A community that is more in tune with the School Board has the opportunity to be more engaged and have input on the elements and costs of education.  To do this, a School Board trustee needs to be very visible in the community and within the Schools they represent.  This is an area that I was very active in during my first 4 years as a School Board member and an area of continued focus for me if elected for another 4 years.

I believe in working with a School Board that helps create a safe environment and inclusive education for all students. I strongly support and promote the St. James Assiniboia School Division’s Values of Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Consultation and Excellence.

What is something that you appreciate about the (City of Winnipeg / the ward / the school ward or school division) you wish to represent?

I have been a part of St. James since 1965 and know how important the local school board is to the entire community.  I have worked with and volunteered for many St. James organizations:

• SJASD International Student Homestay Parent
• Ness Avenue Baptist Church Harvest Food Bank volunteer
• Past VP, St. Charles Soccer Association
  

It is through these experiences that I have become proud to have lived in and contributed to the community I was raised in for so many years.  A community that is so important to me that I want to help shape the education and experiences of the students and future leaders in our community.  I want the children of St. James to have the same opportunities I have given and more.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I first learned about the School Division when attending the following St. James schools:

• Strathmillan
• Golden Gate
• Silver Heights Collegiate

It was a pleasure to represent and serve the same school system I was a product of, as one of their School Board Trustees from 2010 – 2014.  If I am elected to serve in this capacity again, I will enjoy being able to help my community in this capacity once again.

I am also fortunate to be married to a teacher from another school division for 27 years where I have gained added insight into the classrooms and the specific needs of students which has been invaluable.