Sheelah Donahue: “I’m deeply committed to the success of every student in West Vancouver”

Sheelah Donahue is running for school board trustee for West Vancouver Schools (SD45) and has a proven record of dedication and leadership. The by-election for school board trustee is April 5.

Her journey in education began as an engaged parent of three boys, which led to her role as District Parent Advisory Council Chair before being elected to the school board. During her tenure as a trustee, her responsibilities included Vice Chair of the School Board, Chair of the Audit Committee, Vice Chair of the Human Resources Committee, and Trustee Representative on the Joint Indigenous Education Council, where she contributed to the direction and oversight of the school district.

Her extensive liaison and committee work has given her valuable insights into the needs of the district’s diverse student body and the importance of collaborative decision-making, particularly with parents. Beyond education, Sheelah Donahue’s experience in the insurance industry provided her with valuable risk management expertise. Her involvement in local sports boards and the West Vancouver Historical Society demonstrate a commitment to fostering community engagement and collaboration.

Excellence in Education: A Vision for the Future

Donahue emphasizes that an excellent education is the foundation upon which students build their lives, and is committed to the success of every child, regardless of their learning needs or interests. She will work as part of the team to ensure access to opportunities that enable all children to thrive. Whether it is through trades, International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, French Immersion, or academies for elite athletes and artists, West Vancouver schools offer diverse programs that prepare all students for life beyond school—trustees play a key role in implementing all of these programs. Donahue was also part of the board that approved Ecole Cedardale’s IB French Immersion—the first of its kind in Canada.

Furthermore, Donahue is dedicated to supporting programs that accommodate students who require alternative learning environments, language learning assistance, or other resources necessary for academic success.

When asked about claims that some schools need replacement, Donahue says, “Most of our schools were built during times of rapid population growth decades ago. While we are no longer seeing that growth today, through prudent fiscal management we retained our schools during times when other districts were closing schools. While our buildings are older, they are safe, well-maintained and offer modern IT structure and welcoming learning spaces for students and staff.”

Donahue further explained that while local opportunities for capital funding do exist, in the current economic climate the spending focus should be on student achievement.

Advocacy for the Public Education

West Vancouver’s trustees have a strong history of leadership beyond our district, ensuring that they remain connected to best practices and emerging trends in education across the province. Donahue has represented West Vancouver on provincial and regional advocacy bodies, including the British Columbia School Trustees Association (BCSTA), where she served as both a delegate and branch representative. Donahue assures voters that “As your trustee, I will continue to champion our district’s interests at BCSTA, in collaboration with other trustees, and through engagement community stakeholders.”

Moving Forward Together

When talking about the future, Donahue stated that, “I am deeply committed to the success of every student in West Vancouver. Our district’s reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of strong leadership, dedicated educators, engaged parents, and passionate students. If elected, I will do my part to ensure that our schools remain among the best in Canada, and seek to provide every child with the opportunities they need to thrive. On election day, I hope voters will choose me to represent them on the West Vancouver School Board. Together, we can continue building an education system that empowers our students today and prepares them for tomorrow.”

Advance polls are open 8 am to 8 pm on Wednesday, March 26 and Monday, March 31 at West Vancouver Municipal Hall. April 5 polls are open 8 am to 8 pm at the West Vancouver Community Centre and Bowen Island Community School (BICS).

Sheelah Donahue is a candidate in the West Vancouver School District by-election and served as a school board trustee from 2014-2022. She is pursuing that role again in the April 5 by-election. The school district includes the Municipality of West Vancouver, Bowen Island and Lions Bay.