Background
A married and full time working mother of three busy children.
I have been a trustee for the Black Gold School Division for the last four years, a role that affords me valuable insights into educational strategies, board management, and community engagement. Over the years, I have honed my capabilities in the social work field while managing my responsibilities of being a full-time working mother of three active children. On a personal note, my oldest child, who was born with Down syndrome, has been my profound inspiration. His resilience and joy have motivated me to set forth a new vision in my work, focusing particularly on inclusivity and support for children with special needs within our education systems. I am eager to bring my background in social work, coupled with my proactive approach to family and educational engagement.
Qualities
Community Engagement
Leduc resident of 25 years, active in groups like KidSport Leduc & County.
Experience working with teachers, support staff, specialized services, and administrators.
Experience working on parent council and advocating for all children with special learning needs, low-income families, and additional mental health supports.
Prioritize inclusivity and interaction, aiming to amplify diverse voices and empower individuals across our community.
Commitment to Education
12 years of experience working with all areas of the education system.
A mother of three navigating the school system firsthand – advocating for a son with special needs, while supporting children in both high school and junior high.
Leadership Skills
VICE chair of the board for the last three years.
Experience working in Human Resources and working with policies and regulations.
Apply mediation skills to arrive at consensus and solutions that respect the interests of all parties.
Successfully completed the Alberta School Boards Association’s Trustee Governance Program.
Financial Acumen
Effectively review and approve the annual budget to ensure that it aligns with the Division’s goals, priorities and resources.
Monitor the school division’s budget and justify the allocation of funds based on strategic priorities.
Ask pertinent questions during board meetings about financial reports and statements to ensure clarity and transparency.
Ensure equitable and strategic allocation of resources that prioritize high-impact areas and support educational excellence.
Ensure that financial decisions and the reasons beyond them are communicated clearly and openly.
Link financial decisions to enhance the learning environment and outcomes for students.
Critical & Analytical Thinking
Analyze data and reports to understand root causes, such as community growth or budget shortfalls.
Develop long-term strategies based on a thorough analysis of data from the past, present and future projections.
Adapt policies to better meet the needs of the division.
Utilize various communication platforms to ensure messages are delivered effectively and feedback is collected efficiently.
Adaptability & Openness to Change
Able to adapt to various roles and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
Flexible and responsive to new information and changing circumstances.
Capable of working to shape an organization's long-term goals and direct its strategic planning.
Teamwork
I work in the social services sector in a multitude of positions, such as a facilitator, staff manager, and mental health instructor. I’m also a certified career development coach, a certified parent wellness instructor, and a parent myself.
Well-respected board member recognized for diplomatic and thoughtful approaches when finding solutions.
Commitment to transparency and integrity has fostered a culture of trust and open communication within the teams and the current board position.
Fostered a collaborative environment that embraces diverse perspectives.
As part of the Board’s advocacy efforts, engaged with various stakeholders, including teachers, parents, administrators and the students to ensure that different perspectives were considered, whenever appropriate, in the decision-making process.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Mental health workshops, including how to manage anxiety, parenting workshops (Triple P certified) and life skills.
Career development certificate and understanding the necessity of exploring strengths when choosing a career.
Trauma-informed
Social work diploma accompanied by 25 years of experience in the field.
Ethical Integrity & Transparency
Adherence to the Trustee Code of Conduct.
Committed to following policies and guidelines. When conflicts arise, acting with integrity and following proper procedures to resolve them fairly and transparently.
Implementing and encouraging feedback from stakeholders to ensure that the vision is student-centred and responsive to student needs.
Open communication and keeping all stakeholders informed.
Knowledge of Educational Issues
Proudly served as a trustee for the past four years, from 2021-2025, during which I have deeply engaged with critical educational issues.
Experience in this role has equipped me with a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our educational system, enabling me to advocate effectively for sustainable and impactful improvements.
Advocacy
Advocate for public education by engaging with key stakeholders, participating in public conversations, and representing our school division’s priorities in ways that build trust and amplify our impact.
Positive voice for community and constituents who may otherwise be unheard. Ensuring that all perspectives are represented and brought forward for discussion.
Network building to secure funding, partnerships, and support for projects and initiatives forward.