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Meet school trustee candidate Kim Howland

School District 68: Howland, Kim - Trustee Candidate
73493ladysmithKimHowland
Kim Howland

Name: Kim Howland

Age: 50

Occupation/background: Administration at the Child Development Centre. I have an extensive background in early childhood education, accounting, parent leadership, advocacy, and governance boards.

Why are you running for school trustee?

I have had the honour of serving the district as trustee for the past three years, which allowed me to see firsthand:

The advancements we have made in our district through enhanced community collaboration and engagement, which has resulted in the development of the district strategic plan and vision ‘Success for All.'

That shared leadership and collaboration facilitates the establishment and maintenance of positive relationships with stakeholders through tough political times and economic restraint, effectively supporting a better learning and working environment for all in our system.

I am proud of the work we have achieved over a relatively short period of time and I am uniquely prepared and committed to the vision, we as a community have created, that supports students being successful in the 21st century.

What three priorities are important to you and how do you intend to tackle these if elected?

Ensuring decisions are dedicated to the best interest of students, first and foremost. I will continually ask “Is this good for our students across the district?” and “Does this support our vision ‘Success for All’?”

Continuing to support a collaborative environment and maintaining positive relationships with all stakeholders (parents, students, staff, and our community members) in a leadership manner that supports safe and respectful opportunities for all individuals and organizations to share their expertise, diverse ideas, knowledge and experiences.

Discovering innovative ways to enhance community and parent engagement in our schools. I will achieve this through advocating for better communication to parents and the public, opportunities for more collaborations, and strong community partnerships.

How do you plan to work towards a balanced school budget?

As I have for the last three years, once staff presents the board with their recommendations, I will take a blended approach that includes examining management’s recommendations, asking questions, discussing with stakeholders and doing my own research, to support possible recommendations to my fellow trustees. Legally and ethically we need to support our students by working collaboratively towards a balanced budget that will represent the best outcomes within the funds provided. We need to make responsible decisions that reflect support for the here and now, and the long term strategic plan and vision.

What do you think it takes to be an education leader in Nanaimo-Ladysmith? Describe your leadership or co-working style.

Our district is complex and diverse. I believe an education leader in Nanaimo needs to embrace shared leadership, be dedicated to working collaboratively with the diversity that exists within our community, embrace innovative ways to achieve goals within our system’s financial restraints, and be willing to advocate to governments and community the importance of supporting a strong public education system, which meets the unique needs of our youth today and in the future.

 





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