Winnipeg Election 2018

Sandy Nemeth - Louis Riel - 3

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

To be completely honest, I enjoy it (immensely!) and I believe elected representatives, at any level, must genuinely like what they are doing to do it both well and successfully. It’s also been deeply satisfying to represent my community in such an important way.

I’m running in part for the success of our students (current and future), to broaden community engagement, to turn up the volume of our communities voices, to help government understand the realities from the perspective of school boards, to advocate, to encourage and support innovative teaching practices, and to offer and inspire the leadership that will see Louis Riel School Division continue to prosper.

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

In my 8 years of service to the Louis Riel community, I have served on all school board standing committees, three ad-hoc committees, and I am currently Vice-chair of the board. I have been on the executive of the Manitoba School Boards Association for 4 1/2 years, serving as Vice-president for the last 2 ½ years. I have made it a priority to access professional development opportunities that broaden my understanding of current and emerging issues in public education, and how they may impact LRSD.

I know and respect the role of trustee as an elected community representative, and can therefore help new trustees find their footing, learn our processes, and be the best trustees they can, the latter of which the LRSD community should expect.

 

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?

The role of trustee and the work of school boards is not well understood. This has to change to ensure communities appreciate and value both. An informed and engaged public is necessary for strong schools and I commit to doing what I can to broaden this understanding.

Secondly, while amalgamation is on the minds of many, the history of amalgamation in Winnipeg is one of great cost, loss of community voice, and decisions made further away from those who are impacted by them. Any discussion needs to be informed by data, research, consideration of the experience of other jurisdictions in Canada, and involve a thorough and respectful consultation with all stakeholders.  My commitment is to do all I can to ensure the LRSD community participates in discussions, should amalgamation of metro boards become a possibility.

Finally, while the board makes decisions that impact students, we don’t often invite students to participate in the decision-making process.  We know LRSD students are interested, want to be involved, want to share their ideas, and are eager to offer their insights and opinions which is why I stand for hearing more student voice.

 

 

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

This time last year Louis Riel School Division unveiled a blanket of poppies made by students and staff from all of our schools. It symbolized the citizenship that connects and defines LRSD.  It also recognized those that fought for our rights and freedoms, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice.

I appreciate the immense amount of time and effort by LRSD staff that goes into such projects, often outside of school hours.  Indeed, it is the commitment of our teachers and staff that are responsible for many of the extra learning opportunities and experiences our students enjoy.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

Many candidates will campaign on a promise of transparency, fiscal responsibility and representation of their community to the best of their ability.  At a minimum, these should be expectations of all elected officials.  I encourage voters to invest time in learning who is running and why; ask us the questions what will allow you to make an informed vote, and to ensure you elect the community representation you need and deserve.

On October 24^th, please make the time to cast an informed vote.