Winnipeg Election 2018

Neil Vadeboncoeur - 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 LRSD Ward 3 in order to give back to the community. My wife and I have lived in Ward 3 for the last 35 years and our children attended local schools. I believe an excellent public education system is essential for our society.

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

If elected, I will be able to contribute as a school trustee for the second time as I also served as a trustee, vice chair and board chair for the former St. Vital School Division from 1995-2002. I have a wide range of experience in the field of education. I began my career as a classroom teacher. I continued my training in order to work as a special needs teacher and resource teacher. After further graduate study I qualified as a school psychologist and worked in this field for several years.  I then transitioned to become a consultant with the department of education in Manitoba, and an administrator. I recently retired from the University of Manitoba where I was employed as a consultant and sessional instructor

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?

1. I believe it is extremely important for students, staff, parents, and taxpayers that the school board provides excellent governance that focuses on ensuring:

• the diverse needs of students are being met;
• schools are welcoming, safe places;
• feedback is sought from stakeholders;
• and tax dollars are spent wisely.

This requires the board to function smoothly, set priorities and budgets, seek feedback, and communicate effectively. I believe my past experience as board chair in the St. Vital School Division and my work as a consultant will allow me to contribute to effective governance for the Division

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

The community in St. Vital generally, and Ward 3 in particular, is very friendly and family oriented. My wife and I are very appreciative of the schooling our children received in local schools and the programs they participated in at the Dakota Community Club. I am also appreciative of the opportunity I had to coach soccer, baseball and hockey at the Dakota Community Club. It is a terrific place to live, raise a family, or to retire in.