Winnipeg Election 2018

Ian Richardson - Louis Riel - 3

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

I decided to run for school trustee in ward 3 of the Louis Riel School Division for several reasons;

I have three children that attend school in Winnipeg.  Two of my children have special needs.  As a qualified accountant I would like to help ensure that monies available to the school division are allocated in a way to ensure that the best is made available for all the kids in the division.

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

A school division could be considered a large corporation with many people assets and physical assets. I have been an accountant and consultant for over 20 years.  I have worked and consulted for large publicly listed corporations to family owned companies. I have liaised with people that have different opinions and goals within organizations to implement change.  I pride myself on my ability to understand processes, and procedures to recommend any appropriate changes to policies.

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 that equality in education is important.  All students should be able to be open and involved to the best of their abilities.

The board’s approach to bullying and violence in the schools is something that requires special consideration.  I was deeply saddened to read the story of the 12-year-old boy that was bullied at a River East school division school two weeks ago and protested in front of his school.

A solid foundation in the core subjects are enhanced by electives classes. The reality of today’s economy is that soft skills learned in elective classes can be as important as core subjects.

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 diversity of Louis Riel School Division.  The schools are schools are full of teachers willing to best guide students, and students who are open to the new ideas being presented to them on a daily basis.

I appreciate the vision offered by the schools within the division.  Quoting from my daughters school Samuel Burland

“It is our mission to promote growth and development which will empower each student to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential for developing his or her full potential as a responsible citizen.

To help achieve the goals stated in our mission, we strive to foster a stimulating, sensitive, nurturing and fulfilling environment for all Burland students and staff, and endeavor to maintain an open, responsive and positive relationship with parents as they are valued partners in the educational process.”

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I believe that I can make a difference to the education of the kids in the school division.  I believe I can bring a vision that can achieve the best for the kids while remembering the source of the funding, the tax payer voters.