Winnipeg Election 2018

Keith Morrison - River East - Transcona - 3

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

A positive future for our community will continue to have its foundation firmly rooted in a strong public education system.  Children truly are our future.  It is critical that they receive quality educational programming.  I have always been passionate about public education and have devoted my life’s career to it.  As a Trustee, I will bring that passion and my experience to the Board to ensure that a positive future direction is established for all.

The Government of Manitoba has made clear their intention to make changes to the education system.  Changes may include the amalgamation of divisions, reforming the funding formula and revamping the responsibilities of Trustees.  It will be extremely important for RETSD to have Trustees that are well versed in the field of education, knowledgeable of the programming, policies and procedures in RETSD and the needs of the division as a whole.  An experienced voice representing the best interests of RETSD during conversations and consultation with government officials will be critical.  It is important that RETSD make every effort in protecting the good things that have been achieved by the division.

These are the two main reasons why I have decided to run in this election.

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

I am a former teacher, school principal and assistant superintendent with RETSD.  As a teacher I have developed a thorough understanding of how children develop and learn.  As a principal I know how schools operate and understand what concerns and needs parents have related to the family-school dynamic.  As an assistant superintendent I have the knowledge of how the division works as a whole and all of its complexities.  This also includes acquiring an awareness of what the community at large expects of the school division.  It is this experience, awareness and knowledge that sets me apart from other Trustees.  Not only do I know the governance of the division, I have extensive experience in how it operates.  My experience and knowledge base compliment the role and responsibility of being a School Trustee.

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 am, and always will be, an advocate for students and quality education.  Students are why we exist.  Their success is dependent upon what we do as decisions-makers.  It is a responsibility I do not take lightly.  Students are our community’s future.  Trustees with an expertise in the field of education would serve our students and our community well.

Even though RETSD has been an amalgamated school division since 2002, there are some services, resources and educational programming opportunities that are not readily available across the division.  We are one division, and as such, all opportunities and supports must be accessible to all sectors within the division.  Public education needs to be a level playing field.  I am committed to working toward that level of equality.

In this time of impending change to our provincial education system, the best interests of RETSD need to be adequately and respectfully represented.  RETSD has achieved many positive initiatives over the last 16 years.  The division is seen as an educational leader within the province.  Those accomplishments need and deserve an advocate.  I am committed to doing just that on behalf of residents.

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

I regard Ward 3 as the “heart” of the River East Transcona School Division.  The Ward links the eastern portion of the division with the northern wards.  More importantly than just its geographical location is the fact that Ward 3 schools attract students from across the entire division.  Students and families come to Ward 3 schools for language programs (French Immersion, Ukrainian and German Bilingual) and specialized high school courses (International Baccalaureate Program and Cosmetology).  Ward 3 is truly a cross section of the entire division.  That is what makes Ward 3 unique.  Something to be appreciated and celebrated.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

A Trustee represents the people of the Ward.  As such, it is important that an elected official is aware of the needs, wants and opinions of the residents.  A quality Trustee is one who is available and accessible.  One who listens and askes questions to clarify a person’s thoughts.  A quality Trustee seeks first to understand and then be understood.  A quality Trustee has the ability when necessary to put their own opinions in check so they can accurately represent the people.  My experiences in the school system have help me develop this ability and I see that as an asset.

The responsibility of any Trustee is embedded in the name of the position.  Students TRUST that they will learn in an inspiring and safe environment.  Parents TRUST that the best interests of their children are kept in the forefront of any direction that is embarked upon by the division.  Community members TRUST that the financial resources supported by their tax dollar are allocated in a reasonable and responsible manner.  I would be honoured to have your TRUST this election.  Please support “Experience for the Future” with your vote.