My name is Linda Williams, and I’m running in SD44’s by-election because I believe our education system needs to work for every child no matter the path they choose, and that the best solutions come from collaboration and consensus.
We moved to North Vancouver District – in part because of the great reputation of the School District and over the years my son attended Maplewood Preschool, Brooksbank Elementary, Sutherland Secondary, and now Capilano University.
It is in my nature to try to find solutions to issues that arise by working with the community and developing practical solutions through consensus.
At Brooksbank PAC we worked with the District Traffic engineer to initiate traffic calming around the school. We now have marked crosswalks; the laneway was marked with a designated walkway. This was accomplished by getting all levels of government to work together. We can all agree that our children have to be safe on our roads while walking, or biking to school.
In another instance, we experienced some vandalism which led me to my District council. From there, I worked with the RCMP, Youth Advocate groups, community outreach programs, local residents, and we were able to make some changes, and major improvements to our area.
These experiences led me to appreciate the difference that can be made with focus, collaboration and creativity.
As a parent of an active child, I was very involved in organized sports in our local community. I’ve managed hockey, soccer, and baseball team(s). I was also one of the founders of Loutet farm, working with both mayors and councils to create the amazing farm that is there today.
I’m also happy to hear that Brooksbank School will again be working closely with the farm – introducing Elementary school kids to “Farm to Table” and food sustainability during those important formative years.
Over the years I have been very involved with the performing arts – I’ve produced or been involved with over 20 productions around the Lower Mainland and North Shore. My first-hand experience has been of the transformational role that arts can play in a child’s development and to a healthy community.
My wide-ranging work experience has brought the issue of career guidance in our schools into sharp focus. Are we exposing all students to the wide range of options available to them? Not allkids want to go to University, and that’s OK. There are many opportunities for bridging programs from high school to college such as apprenticeships, trade schools, police or firefighting academies, performing arts, high tech, film making, music and more. Our students need to know what is out there for them, and we need to educate them about where to look. We shouldbe preparing every student for afuturewhere change is to be expected but where opportunities and potential abound
More choices will give them bigger voices.
Our schools and neighbourhoods are intricately entwined and play key roles in completing our communities. I’ve been active in both and want to use that experience to help every child receive the school experience that will set them up for a fulfilling happy and productive life.
Please vote for me on May 29. My name will be the last on the ballot, confirming the old cliché, “saving the best for last”.
“I strongly support Linda Williams for School Board as I know she has the experience and ability to be an effective School Trustee”… Former DNV Mayor, Former School Board Chair, CNV Councillor, Don Bell
