Winnipeg Election 2018

Greg McFarlane - Seven Oaks - 2

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

I am running for re-election because I am proud of our community, division, and diverse people who make it. I am a strong advocate for Working people and a voice for those that need to be heard. I see how our decisions and actions impact the opportunities our children have. I believe that with my background, experience, and history I can continue to create positive changes and environments for our future generations.

Building a stronger bridge between the school division and the community is critical to me. I want to make sure that the resources are used in a prudent manner that will have the most impact on the classrooms. Our children are our number one resource; and investing in them, providing them with the tools, support system, guidance, and conviction that they are my top priority is vital to me as a parent and school trustee.

In my experience a lot of graduates are not prepared for real life. Continuing the work I am doing will ensure we are graduating students that can be active contributors to society. Teaching students the skills necessary to succeed, whether through university or pursuing alternative career paths is crucial to me.

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

I have extensive experience sitting on a variety of committees and boards. As a former Canadian Military Reservist I understand the importance of coming together as a team to achieve a common goal. I am on the SOSD Negotiating Committee, the Finance Committee, and I served as Chair of the SOSD Policy Committee.

I have been a strong advocate of the working people, including being Co-Chair of the MFL Occupational Health Centre, First Vice- President of the Winnipeg Labour Council, and Executive Board Member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 2085.

As well as committing my time to very worthwhile charities such as Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and as a community basketball coach.

I have enjoyed serving on the board for the last four years, and I believe that we have succeeded in combining ideas, insights, and strengths that make the SOSD and its students the leading school division in the Province of Manitoba.

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?

My top priority is to improve our literacy and numeracy. There is always room for improvement, and we are already taking strides to address this issue.

I believe that we should continue to lobby the Provincial government for fair-funding formula that is representative of our unique community. SOSD has a small commercial base, so our tax revenue relies largely on the residents. Through exemplary budgeting and insightful disbursements, SOSD has one of the lowest cost per pupil in Manitoba without taking away from the classroom and our students.

Another issue that I believe in is the hiring of teachers and support staff that reflect our diverse community. Giving our children positive role models who share their history and culture encourages pride in their community and in themselves.

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

Having completed my schooling at the Garden City Collegiate and residing in the division I have an understanding and appreciation of this community.

What I am most proud of in our division, is our courage to take risks and try new things. From MET school CVE (Cooperative Vocational Education Program), the implementation of Indigenous Immersion Programs, Filipino Bilingual Programs, and the Beyond Grade 12 Now Program we as a division have proven ourselves a forward thinking, responsive community that celebrates diversity and understands the importance of providing our children with a well-rounded education in which all may thrive.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

It has been an honour and a privilege to serve the last four years as Trustee for the 7 Oaks School Division Ward 2.

As the only Labour Endorsed Trustee and the only ward 2 Trustee with children in the division I have a vested interest in ensuring that all students have the tools and skills to succeed. This can only be achieved by empowering the teachers and support staff with the necessary resources.

To find out more about me, my goals, to get in touch with me, and what I stand for please visit my website or Facebook page.

Check out www.GregMcFarlane.ca or on Facebook Greg McFarlane – Seven Oaks School Trustee.