Winnipeg Election 2018

Dianne Zuk - Pembina Trails - 1

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

I have decided to run for re-election to continue to represent the families and citizens in Ward 1. Charleswood is a unique community and as a longtime resident I know how they value education and their schools. During my tenure as a Trustee I have been a strong advocate for for programs that support student learning from Kindergarten Here We Come to the Alternate High School. In particular, I have supported Literacy initiatives such as Reading Recovery and Literacy Standards for Success.  I have taught at two schools within the Ward: Royal School (Resource and Art) and Ecole Dieppe School (French Immersion classroom teacher, gifted and Resource teacher) which further illustrates my ties to this community. I have attended many meetings with parent groups, school celebrations, graduations, and events such as Canada 150 always open to connect and participate in the life of a school division.

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

My years first as an educator and as a School Trustee for Pembina Trails School Division has provided me with a thorough background and knowledge of the crucial issues in Education. As a Trustee, my role has involved serving on key divisional committees, developing our Three Expectations for Student Learning (Literacy/Numeracy, Engagement, Graduation) as well as well as serving as Chair of the Board. My experience as the first elected President of the Pembina Trails Teachers’ Association, Chair of the Winnipeg Library Board, Director of the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and MITT (Manitoba Institute of Trades & Technology) Board of Governors and Vice President Manitoba School Board Association speak to my dedication to my community and my leadership experience.

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?

Communication is important. As an original member of the Communications and Community Relations Committee, I introduced the concept of our Annual Report, participated in the development of our web site, promoted community luncheons and stressed transparency as well as local participation in decision making. Just this spring our first online town hall enabled the Board to hear directly from the community.

The Pembina Trails is growing with two new schools to be built in Waverley West in the near future. I am also pleased about the housing developments in Ward 1 and look forward to welcoming new families to our schools.

I am proud of the accomplishments and programs I have been a part of for Pembina Trails. From  Ignite 3 (a summer learning program) to PTEC (Pembina Trails Early College)  and from our Indigenous initiatives to School Resource Officers all contribute to student success. The focus is to maintain the high quality of education within fiscal responsibility to the community.

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

I appreciate the dedication of teachers, staff and parents to the students and children who reside in Ward 1.  Pembina Trails is a division that continuously is looking for the appropriate response to the needs of our students and staff “Accomplish Anything”.   The budget reflects this belief with 76% of operating funds focused on regular instruction and student support services.

I appreciate the support I have had from my community of Charleswood.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

My pledge is to continue to work hard and do all I can so that the schools in Ward 1 and the Pembina Trails School Division have the resources to for kids to learn and teachers to teach.