Winnipeg Election 2018

Vicki Rempel - St. James - Assiniboia - King Edward - Deer Lodge

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

Mother of three adult sons, all graduated from St. James school division and a Homestay parent to many international students, including the St. James school division, education matters to me.

I have been living and serving St. James in community healthcare at Access Winnipeg West, union steward and the worker co-chair on the Health and Safety committee, and a homeowner here since 2000.

Alumni of  Red River College, I was a Student Council member.

My decision to run came after the province announced education funding cuts right after the federal government increased funding,  and was cutting health care coverage from international students.

I attended Equal Voices because I want to see education result in better futures to help families rise to the working middle class.  Leader of the Manitoba Liberal party, Dougald Lamont stated, “Vicki Rempel is a conscientious and passionate about the issues that matter most to parents and students. She will be a great representative for you and your community”.

I believe that we can have a well-educated community and support our teachers and staff while keeping property taxes affordable so that parents can also be homeowners.

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

I come from a family of dedicated public servants.

My interest in education began when I was a student myself and resurged when I had children in school.

I believe that training and knowledge is the path to a better life, and better life choices.

My boys are now men and working in their vocations, and I could not be prouder.

My interest in education continues because I am a Homestay parent and life-long learner, a proud graduate of Red River College.

I have been a volunteer and contributor to charitable outreaches such as The Oak Table at Augustine United church and Harvest Winnipeg, and have a special interest in preventing child poverty so that kids can thrive to their fullest.

A volunteer and worker in my children’s schools, experienced in remedial reading, math, conflict resolution, hearing testing, and supporting students with special needs, I’ve been a member of parent council and I founded the École Laura Secord School Call-Back program, a safety program that ensured students arrived at school, before moving to St. James.

I believe in our public schools and I want to bring this same energy and commitment to our students in the St. James-Assiniboia School 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 am a homeowner and taxpayer who lives in King Edward – Deer Lodge ward – just like you –  I want to keep taxes reasonable, with great education outcomes!

I will stand up for public education and advocate for strong, stable provincial funding instead of relying on property tax increases to make up the difference.

I believe increases in federal funding should show up in the front lines of the school room, instead of cuts.

Per-capital funding should follow a student if they have to change schools mid-term

Because my kids and my international homestay students attended, and still attend, area schools, so I care!

Education standards and outcomes should be equal and reliable whether in rural, remote, urban or international schools

I will support initiatives for better outcomes in math, reading, and science in our classrooms, while maintaining music, art, and physical education programing. Whole people need a whole education.

I have been a teaching assistant in area schools, and know firsthand that our front-line teachers and educators need more support.

I want to work with you to build a stronger school-community bond and be part of a more responsive school board.

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 the community I live in, the character homes in Deer Lodge, the businesses, shops and services along St. James Village and Ness.

I provided health care for many in the King Edward area, which is ideally located for workers and starter-home families and students who want to live near Red River College or be quickly enroute to University of Winnipeg, University of Manitoba, or Canadian Mennonite University.

When arriving on Sharp Boulevard in 2000, we were surrounded by seniors.  As time went on, so did the seniors. Young families joined us.  The demographic shifted, and families require community services; schools, daycares, recreation centers and safe playgrounds.

Schools are central to that need.

Some schools were closed, torn down and the land repurposed. Community centers were closed and we have to decide how to use these resources when communities are in a state of transformation.

I want to preserve the best aspects about our area, without losing the flexibility to change with the times.

I will listen to my neighbours and represent them at the school board, because I really am interested.

Transparency, accountability, communication and closer bond between the school board and the community are my goals.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I live, work and love in my community. I have a vision for the future here. I hope I can count on your support on October 24th as your next King Edward – Deer Lodge Ward Trustee.