Winnipeg Election 2018

Peter Kotyk - River East - Transcona - 4

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

I decided to run for school trustee to continue advocating and representing not only the best interest of Ward 4, but our whole school division. Our 9 member board for the 2018-2022 term will consist of a minimum 5 trustees with 1 term or less experience, thus long term quality experience is crucial. With the province announcing an educational review beginning in 2019, I felt my years of experience, knowledge and commitment would be invaluable in representing the best interests of River East Transcona. I am very familiar with all 42 schools, senior administration, many principals, vice-principals, teachers, consultants and support staff, including transportation and maintenance. I can devote my full time attention and continue to be a strong voice for public education.

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

Over my 23 years experience, I have been Board chairman a number of years, vice-chair, member of every standing committee as well as ad-hoc committees, and a member of executive with MSBA. As a University of Winnipeg graduate, I understand the value and opportunities offered by quality advanced education. Our mandate is to best prepare every student for the next phase of their educational journey or work life. Having served with 5 superintendents over the years, many other administrators, professional development opportunities and my passion of education for everyone makes for a good fit.

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?

Our school division is facing a number of challenges, including increased enrollment in some schools beyond capacity, to declining in others, large population developments, potential new city re-amalgamation, fair taxation funding, aging school buildings, boundary review, increased and ever changing technologies, to name a few, while balancing existing needs, emerging needs and value for the tax paying population.

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

I love this school division. As a young 6 year old I attended New Rosewell School, many years ago, today it houses our Maintenance office on Molson. My children attended Emerson, Sun Valley, Maple Leaf, John Pritchard and finally River East Collegiate. I loved attending concerts, sporting events, fairs, picnics, tumbling rallys to graduations exercises. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people, who seem more like family than friends and neighbours. I enjoy going to Superstore or Costco and people come up to talk to me about their children’s or grandchildren’s education, I always have time for them. I’ve included my home phone number on my brochures for years, why, cause you deserve answers. I’d like to think we are one great big family here in River East Transcona.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

School Trusteeship requires a real commitment. Time to read and comprehend documents, attend many meetings, being available at all times, accessible and dedicated, stamina and energy, determination and steadfast resolve for what is best for our most precious resource … our children. Finally, here are questions to ask candidates when/if they come to your door asking for your vote, 1) How many Regular scheduled Board Meetings (approx. 20 per year minimum) have they attended, in the last month, year or last 8? (would be last 2 terms). 2) Ask them to simply name the current Principal of River East Collegiate, or Principal of JP or Chief, or any Principal of one of our 4 Early years school. 3) Name our last superintendent. 4) Where is the board office? Their response should help you in your decision making, and their commitment.