Public education needs strong advocates now more than ever

As a former school trustee who first ran for election when our children’s education was under threat from the Mike Harris “Common Sense Revolution”, I am worried about the future of democratic representation in our school system.

I applaud the trustees running for re-election who know that, in this moment, their voice matters more than ever. The ones standing up to cuts to funding and staffing.

Like many trustees across Ontario, I stepped up when trustee compensation had been reduced so dramatically that attending meetings often cost me more in childcare than I earned in salary. We weren't there for the pay, title, or prestige, but to fight for a school system that included democratic local representation, that was properly funded, and fair to all students.

My years on the school board, as Vice President of the provincial school board association (OPSBA), and as Chair of York Region District School Board, taught me that standing up for education workers and students is some of the most rewarding work you can do.

For those putting their names forward to continue the fight for proper funding and continued democratic local representation, THANK YOU. Public education needs strong advocates now more than ever. Democracy works best when dedicated people are willing to step forward, speak up, and represent their communities.

I encourage everyone to support those who are choosing to continue to serve in our education system, and to remember that strong public schools don't happen by accident, they happen because people are willing to stand up and fight for them.