1. What makes you qualified to be a Trustee?
I am a youth advocate with recent firsthand experience of our schools. Through my student union and the Canadian Federation of Students, I have spent years fighting for students and parents to be heard. I know the school system from the inside because I recently came through it myself. I will bring that perspective to representing Don Valley, alongside careful preparation, a willingness to ask difficult questions and a commitment to following through. Understanding what a decision means in a classroom will guide how I approach school resources, policies and student support.
2. What is your connection to this riding?
Don Valley has been my home for more than 20 years. I am running to represent Ward 8, Don Valley East and West, with a long connection to this community and recent experience of our public school system. My commitment covers the whole ward, including students who travel across neighbourhood and ward boundaries to attend school. Representation should reflect both where people live and how they use the school system.
3. What do you see as the most important role of a school trustee?
The most important role is to make public education accountable to the communities it serves. That means listening, examining evidence, explaining decisions and working collectively on policy and budgets when trustees have those powers. Under current TDSB supervision, governing authority rests with the provincial supervisor. During this period, I will focus on community advocacy: documenting concerns, seeking answers from the board and province, and keeping residents informed. If trustee powers return, I will bring those concerns into decisions about resources and student success.
4. What issues do you think need to be addressed most urgently?
My urgent priorities are school safety, staffing, learning support and fair access to programs. I will press for clear action on bullying and discrimination, staffing that reflects student needs, and timely special education support. I will also advocate for language and arts opportunities that students can reach, and school space that keeps pace with new housing in Don Valley East and West. I will ask for clear information about unmet needs and the plans to address them. The goal is schools where every student can learn, participate and develop their abilities.
5. If elected, how much time are you prepared to dedicate to this position? How do you anticipate spending this time?
My weekly commitment will be 20 hours, with additional time for urgent matters. During supervision, I will spend that time responding to residents, meeting with school councils and students, reviewing published plans and budgets, and raising concerns with the board and province. My goal is to provide an initial response to calls and emails within 48 hours and keep people informed as their concerns progress. If trustee governing duties resume, I will also allocate time for board and committee meetings, preparation and decisions. Residents should be able to see how I spend my time and what work it produces.
6. Is there anything else that electors should know about you before election day?
Students deserve a meaningful say in decisions about their education. That principle, together with better communication, fair resources and preparation for life after graduation, is at the centre of my campaign. I will support opportunities that build practical skills, including technology and readiness for work, alongside academic learning. I will also be clear about what I can influence, what requires a board decision and what rests with the province. My commitment is to explain my positions, report back on my work and remain open to questions throughout the term.