Leah Canning
Candidate for the Hamlet of Sherwood Park, Electoral Subdivision No. 2
Q: Why do you want to be a school trustee, and what experience do you bring to the role?
A: As a resident of Sherwood Park since 1970, I have a strong connection to our community and Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS). I’ve been an EIPS student, parent of two EIPS graduates, and a teacher for over 25 years in elementary and special programs.
I am running for school trustee because I believe every child deserves access to a high-quality education in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. I want to help ensure our schools remain places where all students thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.
As trustee, I will support EIPS’s strategic leadership, focusing on strong student outcomes, good governance, and effective support for teachers and staff. I bring firsthand experience, a deep respect for public education, and a strong sense of responsibility to students, families, and the wider community.
I am committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity and purpose.
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: Advocating for public education means being a strong, informed voice for students, staff, and families—both within the community and provincially. With over 25 years as a teacher in EIPS, and experience as a former student and parent, I understand the value of a strong public school system.
As trustee, I will build relationships with stakeholders, listen to their needs, and communicate the challenges and successes of our schools. I believe in engaging with the community by attending school events and meeting regularly with parents, teachers, and local leaders.
I will advocate at the provincial level to ensure EIPS receives adequate funding and support, especially for inclusive education and mental health services. My goal is to ensure every student in our division has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed now and in the future.
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 challenges EIPS will face in the next four years is balancing financial constraints with the growing and diverse needs of students. Rising enrollment, increased demand for inclusive programming, mental health supports, and technology access require careful, student-focused resource management.
My vision is to prioritize equitable access to education by making strategic decisions that reflect student needs and ensuring transparency in resource allocation. Listening to students, families, and staff will be key to understanding where support is needed.
I will advocate for increased provincial funding to help EIPS meet these demands. As an educator and longtime community member, I understand the importance of supporting teachers and school leaders as they navigate these pressures.
By working collaboratively with the community and fellow trustees, I aim to help EIPS provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where all students can thrive.
Q: What kind of relationship should a school division and its Board have with its community, its parents and its families?
A: A strong, transparent, and collaborative relationship between the school division, its Board, and the community—including parents and families—is essential for student success. The Board should serve as a bridge, ensuring that the voices of parents and community members are heard and considered in decision-making. This means actively listening, communicating clearly, and being accessible.
Engaging families fosters trust and creates a sense of shared responsibility for student learning and well-being. It’s important to provide regular updates, invite input through consultations or forums, and support opportunities for community involvement in schools.
Additionally, the Board should work closely with community partners to enhance resources and support for students. By fostering open dialogue and mutual respect, the Board can help build an inclusive environment where families feel valued and empowered to contribute to their children’s education and the success of the division.
Q: What do you believe should be done to ensure diverse, equal, respectful and inclusive environments in schools?
A: To ensure diverse, equal, respectful, and inclusive environments in schools, it’s essential to start with clear policies that promote equity and respect for all students and staff. Schools should provide ongoing training for educators and staff on cultural competency, unconscious bias, and inclusive teaching practices to create welcoming classrooms for everyone.
It is also important to actively listen to the voices of students, families, and community members from diverse backgrounds, involving them in decision-making and school activities. Curriculum and resources should reflect diverse perspectives and experiences to foster understanding and respect.
Creating safe spaces where students feel valued and supported—regardless of race, gender, ability, or background—is vital. Supporting mental health and addressing bullying promptly are also key components.
As a trustee, I would advocate for these initiatives and ensure the Board prioritizes equity and inclusion in all policies, funding decisions, and school-community partnerships.
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 support Elk Island Public Schools’ alternative programs because I believe every student deserves options that reflect their interests, values, and learning styles. Programs like French Immersion, Ukrainian and German Language and Culture, Logos Christian, AP, IB, Outreach, and Sport for Life offer students the chance to grow in ways that go beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.
These programs create space for academic challenge, cultural connection, and personal development—and that is something I want to see continue and grow. I would work to make sure they are accessible, well-resourced, and clearly communicated so families can make informed choices.
Listening to students, parents, and teachers is key. Their feedback should help guide how we support and improve these programs. At the end of the day, offering a variety of pathways helps more students feel engaged and successful—and that is what great public education is all about.