Bio
A lifelong Islander, Ann’s career has included financial administrator, business owner and event coordinator. As an interactive workshop facilitator, Ann, 45, presents tools and resources on how to navigate educational policy to achieve successful results. Her deep passion and commitment to building communities and supporting families has seen Ann actively engaged at the school, district and provincial tables for over 17 years. As an involved parent, Ann has served as PAC Chair, DPAC Director, President of the BC Confederation of PAC, and was appointed to the BC Teachers Council for a three year term in 2013.
Message from Ann:
I am running for trustee to bring my proven leadership skills in building collaborative relationships with all educational partners to the table. We need to find successful solutions that work for all students. The education system is changing rapidly, and with these changes come many unknown challenges for districts, teachers, and school communities to adapt to the personalized learning model.
Personalized learning includes different types of learning environments and learning opportunities for students. The system is evolving so quickly that the key issues that we are discussing today will not be the same issues in three years. These changes will bring new pressures and challenges to our district, requiring true collaboration and caring for families, teachers, and educational partners to meet the needs and learning conditions of all of our students.
As a parent and strong voice for all students, I understand the essential role of school in the lives of students, families, and our community. As an active parent and community leader in Victoria for 17 years, I have held numerous executive and committee positions on elementary, middle, and high school Parent Advisory Councils (PACs), the District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), as well as other prominent district committees.
My four year term as President of the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils from 2009-2012 has provided me with an extensive knowledge of the intricate complexities of our public education system and the challenges of bringing about change. Recently appointed to the BC Teachers Council for a three year term, I am continuing to represent the public to ensure that teachers are supported and provided the necessary tools to adapt to the increasing demands and changes to our public school system.
A strong and passionate supporter of public education, I have consulted, written, presented, and facilitated discussions and engagement workshops for teachers, principals, trustees, parents and the Ministry of Education, locally and provincially. I continue to represent parents and provide input and feedback at the local, district and provincial levels. I am often called upon for my opinion or as a consultant on important educational issues and projects. Sitting on numerous provincial education committees including the Education Advisory Council, BC Education Leadership Council, First Nations Education Steering Committee, and the BC School Centred Mental Health Coalition, I have a deep understanding of the need to look at the big picture, to seek input from all partner groups, and to keep an open mind that allows different viewpoints to be taken into consideration before a final decision is made.
As Trustee, I will remain committed to ensuring a positive learning experience for all students and families. I will advocate and support the important role of parents, teaching staff and community to ensure the best possible outcome in our diverse public education system.
Website: www.ann4trustee.com