Jessica Boyden
Candidate for the lands lying north of Secondary Highway 630, Electoral Subdivision No. 3
Q: Why do you want to be a school trustee, and what experience do you bring to the role?
A: I am very passionate about all children receiving a high-quality education, so that they can reach their full potential. I have been a school teacher for 25 years in three different districts; in Thailand, for EPSB and EIPS. For many years I taught Gr 1 and 2 with EPSB, and then I taught Kindergarten to Gr 9 with EIPS. My four teenage daughters are all enrolled in the EIPS system and for several years I was the Chair of their school Parent Council. I have a strong desire to be the best advocate I can be for all students and parents in my ward.
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: If I am elected, I look forward to collaborating with the other board members to ensure all students achieve success. We can do this by setting a strategic vision and specific priorities that reflect the needs of our students and the division. Active communication between parents, students and the school board is key to ensure everyone's voices are heard.
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: One of the biggest issues facing EIPS right now is the lack of funding for our schools. As a result, large class sizes are hindering our students learning. I have taught classes with 40 students crammed into a classroom and I know firsthand that this is not an ideal environment for the students to learn and achieve success. There is also a shortage of good teachers entering the profession because of the poor classroom and school conditions and the lack of respect for the profession. Poor pay, long hours and lack of funding are not going to draw teachers to the profession. I think it is very important that we stand behind our teachers who work year after year to provide the best quality education possible for our children.
Q: What kind of relationship should a school division and its Board have with its community, its parents and its families?
A: As Trustees, we have a responsibility to be a vital link between the community and the school division. By listening, representing and responding to the concerns of the community, we can help shape decisions that reflect the values and needs of everyone. I strongly believe in being an advocate for the students and their parents by making sure that they feel heard. As taxpayers, Albertans have a vested interest in the use of public funds. I plan on being transparent as a steward of this money to ensure the funds are used effectively.
Q: What do you believe should be done to ensure diverse, equal, respectful and inclusive environments in schools?
A: It is extremely important to me that if I am elected to the important role of Trustee, that I stay committed to the success of our students regardless of their backgrounds, circumstances or beliefs. It is crucial that all students have the supports in place to reach their highest potential no matter what programming their parents choose for them. Having a say in how the resources and dollars are allocated fairly is very important to me. As an advocate for ALL students, parents and teachers in our division, I want to ensure that it is used wisely because the students and teachers are so directly affected by the allocation of funds.
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: I am a strong believer for CHOICE in EDUCATION. All Canadian children have a constitutional right to access the benefits of education without discrimination. This is a fundamental human right that we should never disregard. We all have the freedom to religion, belief, opinions and ability to join various groups. It is crucial that the education system recognizes this and makes alternative programs available. As a Trustee, I will ensure that these alternative programs are not dismissed.