Stacey Cline

1. What makes you qualified to be a Trustee?

• I am running for re-election; I was originally elected to represent DVW in the March 2025 by-election
• I am the only former TDSB teacher at the board of trustees: I bring a unique perspective grounded in firsthand classroom experience. I understand what it takes for a school and classroom to operate effectively, ensuring that every student’s needs are recognized and supported. My practical experience enables me to ask the right questions, advocate for informed decisions, and help ensure that our schools provide every child with the opportunities they need to thrive.

2. What is your connection to this riding?

• I live in the new Ward 6; my children attended Allenby and Glenview (plus ESA, and Northern outside of the ward)
• The reason for my move to another riding is because of boundary redistribution and as a result I had to adapt
• Just as I once served DVW at the federal level, I now serve the ward at City Hall as the Director of Policy and Stakeholders Engagement for Deputy Mayor Mike Colle

3. What do you see as the most important role of a school trustee?

• Accountability to the electorate: I serve students, parents, and educators, as well as all citizens of the ward because public school is the foundation of civil society
• Accountability includes consultation with constituents to understand local concerns while developing policy for the good of the whole board, and advocate for students and families
• Responsible governance: policies must serve all students with a focus on student achievement, well-being, equity, and inclusion
• Students must always be at the centre of all policy decisions

4. What issues do you think need to be addressed most urgently?

• special education and the specialized supports students need to succeed
• student mental health and safety
• capital repairs, aging buildings, repair backlog
• student attendance: address it at its root without punishing students
• student achievement – holding staff accountable
• advocate for appropriate provincial funding

5. If elected, how much time are you prepared to dedicate to this position? How do you anticipate spending this time?

• As demonstrated prior to provincial takeover, I take my responsibility seriously and it is a genuine priority to be dependable and responsive. I attended all board meetings in person, and visited my schools to get to know my community. I will continue to devote meaningful time every week, while recognizing that the workload will vary. I will put in whatever time is needed to fulfil the role to the best of my ability.
• I want to be transparent that I have a full-time job – however in that position I am still serving the ward

6. Is there anything else that electors should know about you before election day?

• Again, I am the only former TDSB teacher at the board of trustees: I am the only Trustee with classroom experience. During the time I served on the board prior to provincial takeover, I believe that my lived experience and practical knowledge gave me added perspective on how policies impact students and teachers on the ground.