Kids Matter has unveiled a slate of three school trustee candidates to contest this fall’s civic election.
Incumbent Bruce Reid is joined by newcomers Randy Anderson-Fennell and Victor Espinoza on the slate.
(For more civic election coverage visit http://www.delta-optimist.com/municipal-election)
“As a trustee for the past four years, I’ve seen our district celebrate triumphs and overcome many challenges,” said Reid, a Tsawwassen resident. “But there is still so much to do in order to ensure the success of all learners — my work is not yet done.”
The candidates say Delta schools must be safe, inclusive, accessible, well-funded and academically enriching.
Reid lists the underfunding of education and not enough resources for special needs students as particular barriers that need addressing.
Both Reid and Espinoza are teachers by profession. Reid, a former pastor, is retiring from the Richmond School District this year. Espinoza, a 20-year public school teacher, works in a high school in Richmond. Anderson-Fennell is an electrician who works in the Surrey School District. All three say they have seen firsthand the affliction to public education caused by years of underfunding.
“Underfunding affects every aspect of a child’s education, from educational resources to safety to maintenance to simple classroom cleanliness — it all goes back to funding, and we’re well past the point of merely being able to do more with less,” said Anderson-Fennell, who lives in Ladner.
Also from Ladner, Espinoza lists ensuring learners have multiple pathways to success among his top priorities. He is an advocate of innovative instruction, academically enriching experiences, and access to sustainable technology.
“I want to see every Delta student reach their maximum educational, personal and social potential,” said Espinoza. “Our schools should be the foundation where students discover their strengths so that they can thrive in our ever-changing, increasingly technological and fast-paced world.”
The civic election is set for Oct. 20.
