Perspectives

​I  am committed to being a part of the education sector and, in particular the public education system, continuing to support and advocate for all students, their parents and caregivers, ensuring that quality education is democratic, free, equitable and inclusive.  ​

 

My key motivations are to support student success and well-being, ensure accessible and safe learning environments, and advocate for sufficient resources for improved teaching, learning and working conditions.​

 

I have deep experience and will continue to make significant contributions.

 

I was the Superintendent and CEO for two school districts. I concluded my K-12 career in 2015 having served the students, parents, and community in Vancouver and Delta. This gives me a deep understanding of the needs and challenges of the education system. I worked closely with my own boards of education and connected with local post secondary institutions during these times.

 

I have served the post-secondary sector for over 14 years both early in career as a lecturer and during the past 8 years teaching at the graduate level at UBC, and in senior administration at KPU, finishing a five-year term as Vice President, Students.

 

I have volunteered on a number of boards and councils during my career. These include: Science World, BC Council on Admissions and Transfer, BC Council for International Education, Technology Education Careers Council, BCIT Technology Educators' Program Advisory Council, and the EdCan Network Council, and leading roles with Learning Forward Board, Senior Academic Administrators' Forum, BC Science Teachers' Association, and the BC School Superintendents' Association.​

 

For the past two years, I have served with the OneCity Vancouver Education Caucus, working with OneCity colleagues in supporting OneCity VSB Trustee Jennifer Reddy.

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Early in my career, I served as President and Bargaining Chair for my local teachers' union and also served on the BCTF provincial Bargaining Committee and Women in Negotiations sub-committee. 

 

I have recently been appointed to the Vancouver Community College Board of Governors. I serve as Chairperson of the Institute for Public Education BC (IPE/BC) and Chairperson for the ArtStarts in Schools board. I am also an advisor with the Technology Professions BC (TPBC) organization. I recently concluded serving as a member of the Quantum Algorithms Institute (QAI) professional development advisory committee.

 

As a Superintendent/CEO, university Vice President, and senior consultant to school districts and post-secondary institutions, I have gained a strong understanding of how school districts and universities function. I understand the processes and practices of our K-12 and advanced education systems. I also know the people involved – employee groups, government, and community.  I have visited many K-12 and post-secondary institutions across the province - I know both sectors.​

 

Throughout my career, I have worked closely with the people involved, including rights holders, students, parents/caregivers, unions, administrators, and ministry staff.​With more than 45 years serving public education, my background and leadership experiences have prepared me to respond to the challenges we face, whether small or large in scope and affecting individuals, groups -- or the education system as a whole.