Winnipeg Election 2018

Kris Kendall - St. James - Assiniboia - Silver Heights - Booth

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

I decided to run for School Trustee because I want to make positive changes to the student experience. I have been working with schools for 17 years either as an Educational Assistant or through the foster system. Both times, it has been working directly with children in school. I enjoy working in schools, helping students make their steps in the education system, but have been frustrated at times with how policy has changed over the years. I would like to bring my voice to the school board to advocate for the children that I have been working with. As a parent in this division, I want my kids to have a positive experience with school and I would like to be a part of that process.

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

I have 10 years experience as an Education Assistant (five in this division) and 15 years experience in the child care field. As an Educational Assistant, I have been in three school divisions, working in over 30 different schools, each one managing their students differently. Working with children in care involved many different experiences with the schools on the parent side of the table. I saw new perspectives and learned to utilize the many community and multi-cultural resources available to the youth. I have learned much on my career path and would like to bring this knowledge to the decision making of policy and student support.

I have worked in every school in this Ward and have children who attend schools in this area. I have volunteered for field trips, worked lunch programs and coached at Sturgeon Heights. With relevant real-world experience and years of working in schools, I have firsthand knowledge of current educational issues and practices, contributing to an informed perspective of the current realities in this division.

 

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 have seen firsthand the challenges that teachers, support staff and students go through on a daily basis and I have witnessed some exciting breakthroughs. Unfortunately, teachers are not always able to see what goes on in others schools and I would like to help bridge the gap between them. I feel that there needs to be more communication between trustees, principals, teachers and educational assistants to help brainstorm about common hurdles.

Bullying prevention, services for students with special needs, strong arts and sport programs and various clubs give opportunity for students to belong and evolve. All aspects of division business should lead to the enhancement of education to ensure our children are well prepared for the future. I believe that our schools and students can only prosper with the help of the parents and community; it is everyone’s responsibility to ensure our children’s success. Strengthening home and school partnerships ensure that parents and children have the resources and the tools required to reach their potential. Students with challenges need to be educated with compassion not entitlement. Accountability and responsibility leads to confidence and self-reliance. Inclusion gives every student the opportunity to learn, advance and contribute.

 

 

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

I am a proud Winnipegger and resident of St. James. I grew up going to Alexander Ross, Assiniboine, Robert Browning, Golden Gate and Sturgeon Creek. I benefitted from the French Immersion program and took part in many extracurricular activities. I had a good experience growing up in the St. James area and wish the same for my children.

I appreciate the hard work that is put into teaching our youth. I have enjoyed my time working for this division and with its dedicated staff. Good people work here and I hope to continue my relationship with this division as a School Trustee.  I share the St. James-Assiniboia School Division’s vision of values and goals for a successful student body. Schools should be a safe and inclusive place for all.