My priorities align with the Near North District School Board’s Vision, Mission, and Values. Through creating an inclusive culture with equitable programming, building diverse pathways, and supporting community partnerships, we can ensure student achievement and well-being.
I believe all schools are vital to their communities. With technology and partners who understand the value of funding our rural northern facilities, we can deliver all students a valuable educational experience that will help them achieve their goals and will attract new residents. No student or family should be faced with the decision to move to a larger community to obtain board run programming or ensure a fulsome elementary school experience.
I have been involved with many community projects including the revitalization of two community parks, creations of three community gardens, building 55 new affordable homes, and partnering with local service providers to enhance program offerings. I have been fortunate to be involved in NNDSB schools as a coach and parent volunteer including serving as the Chair of Victory Public School Parent Council, Chair of McDougall Public School Parent Council, member of the Parry Sound Public School building committee, and Parent Involvement Committee member. My daughter attends Parry Sound High School where I am currently a member of the parent council. My son is now enrolled in his first year of a Bachelor of Arts in Music at the University of Guelph after having been involved in Parry Sound High School’s band and music classes.
I grew up in North Bay and was very fortunate to participate in the programming available to North Bay students, including theatre performance and football. I was also a student representative and travelled to other communities to attend leadership camps including one hosted at Widdifield Secondary School. I began volunteering in schools again when my wife started teaching over twenty years ago. In my professional life I have worked in the telecom industry and two financial institutions as a financial advisor and commercial banker before beginning my current role in non-profit housing where I work for Georgian Bay Native Non-Profit Homes, Parry Sound Non Profit Housing Corporation, and Parry Sound Affordable Housing Development Corporation.
I welcome all community members to connect with me, and I thank you for the opportunity to serve.
