Bryan Butler

Candidate for the western portion of the County of Minburn No. 27 Ward

Q: Why do you want to be a school trustee, and what experience do you bring to the role?
A: Communities with a strong education program benefit in every facet of life. As a life long educator, formally and informally, I want to do what I can to ensure that Elk Island Public Schools continue to maintain the standard of excellence which my children enjoyed and which, I hope, my grandchildren will benefit from as well. 

Twenty years in the classroom and in administration have given me a wide range of experience. In addition to working in Canada, I have established a digital learning program in Honduras and taught in Secondary and Post Secondary institutions in several African countries.

Q: One of the primary roles of a school board is advocating for public education and the Division. How do you see yourself fulfilling this responsibility?
A: For the past several years, I have been active in advocating the EIPS schools in Vegreville. Working with newcomers to Canada and enabling their children to successfully integrate into the public system has been a pleasure. As a trustee, I will be able to be involved to a greater degree with the schools and, consequently, have an even better grasp of the way in which they are serving the community.

Q: What do you see as the biggest issue facing Elk Island Public Schools in the next four years, and what is your vision for addressing that issue?
A: The continued growth of our communities and the pressures that put on the school system. Many of the students are EAL and bring both the richness of a diverse heritage and the challenges of adapting to the Alberta system of education. I would like to continue finding ways to celebrate the knowledge that these students already have while, at the same time, working with the schools to find ways in which to accommodate their transition to the Alberta Curriculum.

Q: What kind of relationship should a school division and its Board have with its community, its parents and its families?
A: As an already active member of the community, I see the need for the Board members to be aware of school activities (both curricular and extra-curricular) and find ways to be part of those events. Time spent with parents and community members at these events is one way in which to listen to concerns and celebrate successes.

Q: What do you believe should be done to ensure diverse, equal, respectful and inclusive environments in schools?
A: The public school system is responsible to welcome students from every segment of the community. There will be great differences in their backgrounds and the challenges they face at home as well as at school. Ensuring that school staff has access to the training and support they need to enable them to meet the variety of students they meet is critical. Seeking to offer educational opportunities for parents and guardians to learn about the various needs of the school community (both staff and students) can broaden the abilities of the greater community to assist the schools in their task of making schools a safe and inclusive place for all.

Q: If elected, how would you support Elk Island Public Schools alternative programs—which include French Immersion, German Language and Culture, Ukrainian Language and Culture, Alternative Christian, Logos Christian, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Outreach and Sport for Life?
A: Having a variety of programs in Elk Island is a great opportunity for students to find an avenue of learning which fits their abilities and interests. Language programs are, to me, very important in broadening the horizons of students and giving them a better understanding of the strength diversity offers.

Seeking ways to provide recognition of the knowledge of other languages is an area I would like to pursue. Giving those students who know a second and third language an avenue to have that knowledge reflected on their record in a positive way would enrich their school experience, enhance their school transcripts, and give impetus to other students to acquire a second language as well.