Tiffany Bergmann
Candidate for the City of Fort Saskatchewan, Electoral Subdivision No. 1
Q: Why do you want to be a school trustee, and what experience do you bring to the role?
A: I’d love to be a trustee to represent Fort Saskatchewan schools as I deeply believe in public education and have a passion to see the best for teachers, students, and parents. Elk Island Public Schools is a great division, but like every district, it faces challenges in funding, supporting diverse student needs, and adapting to a rapidly changing world. I am running for trustee because I want to ensure that every child in our schools is given the opportunity to thrive – academically, socially, and emotionally. I bring experience as a local business owner, a resident of Fort Saskatchewan for almost 50 years, a parent, and a former educational board member. These experiences give me both perspective and practical skills to help navigate the complexities our schools face.
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: In order to advocate, you need to understand. Therefore, I would actively listen to all parties to ensure all voices are heard. I would work at building strong relationships by maintaining open and respectful communication. Highlighting the successes in our schools through my interactions with people and on social media would be something that I’d be proud to do. To work towards meeting the challenges in the division I would be a champion for resources and support. In all aspects of decision making and advocacy I would do my best to ensure that it is grounded in data and the realities of our division.
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: Creating conducive learning environments in all classrooms and providing support for teachers with the increasing emotional, social, and academic complexities being seen in the classroom. Every student deserves an environment where they can learn and reach their potential. Teachers also deserve support so they can teach to their full potential and impact future generations. I would advocate for ways to provide support in the classroom for teachers where needed so that the classroom can be a flourishing place for learning.
Q: What kind of relationship should a school division and its Board have with its community, its parents and its families?
A: This relationship is extremely important and needs to be strong and healthy with open communication. Parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. I want to create stronger partnerships between schools and families by improving communication, encouraging meaningful involvement, and ensuring parents feel their voices are heard. Since trustees are stewards of public funds and advocates for students, I am committed to transparency, accountability, and open communication with the community.
Q: What do you believe should be done to ensure diverse, equal, respectful and inclusive environments in schools?
A: There are several things that are essential to create this. Firstly, fostering a culture of respect by setting clear expectations that every student and staff member is valued. This is something that needs to be modelled daily from the top down. We also need to provide staff with the tools needed to support all students and to give families a voice. Ultimately, inclusivity is a mindset where every child knows they belong, and every family feels welcomed by their school.
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: By ensuring that they are given the resources and the recognition they need to thrive. Not every student’s path is the same so it is wonderful that EIPS can o????er alternative programs. These programs give families meaningful choices and allow students to learn in environments where they feel engaged and supported in their alternative program. I would advocate for fair funding, strong communication with families, and continued promotion of these programs so they remain accessible and sustainable.