Richmond Teachers' Association

President : Al Klassen
278-2539 / 278-4320 (fax)
e-mail: rta@sd38.bc.ca

SPECIAL EDITION

November 3, 2014
Vol. 40 No. 01

SCHOOL TRUSTEE ELECTION

Saturday, November 15, 2014

CANDIDATES FOR THE OFFICE

OF
SCHOOL TRUSTEE
Rod Belleza (RITE) incumbent
Michael Cober (Independent)
Moushtak Estepho (RCC)
Mohamud Ali Farah (Independent)
Norm Goldstein (RITE) - incumbent
Ken Hamaguchi (Independent)
Jonathan Ho (RCC)
Kenneth Ho (Richmond Reform)
Kevin Lainchbury (Richmond First)
Peter Liu (Richmond First)
Sandra Nixon (Independent)
Matt Pitcairn (RCC)
Donna Sargent (Richmond First) - incumbent
Michael Starchuk (RITE)
Debbie Tablotney (Richmond First) - incumbent
Jack Trovato (RCA)
Alice S. Wong (Renew Richmond)
Eric Yung (Richmond First) - incumbent

Authorized by the Richmond Teachers Association

Al Klassen, President, registered sponsor under the Election Act, 604-278-2539

The following questions were asked of the candidates for School Trustee by the Richmond
Teachers Association and are being distributed to all teachers living and / or working in
Richmond. Please feel free to forward this document to friends and family.
All responses received by the RTA have been published as submitted.
1. Why do / did you want to become a School Trustee?
Rod Belleza
I want to serve in public office. Public office is a sacred
trust. It is a privilege to serve and make a difference in
the lives of people and our community. As a former
Jaycee, I believe that service to humanity is the best
work of life. I have been serving our community through
various Canadian and multicultural organizations in
Richmond for over 25 years. My public service is an
integral part of my community service.
Michael Cober
My wife is a high school teacher and my son is a grade
five elementary school student. The experiences we
have shared over the past 6 months have made it very
clear to me that support and advocacy for our public
school system cannot be the sole burden of those who
work within that system. It is important that we
collectively communicate our expectations and values as
it applies to public education. Expecting the BCTF and
all those who suffered through the recent strike to be the
sole advocates of our children education is unfair.
Hopefully, a louder voice from a broader spectrum of
citizens will turn the ear of our current government and
start to affect change in a positive manner.
Moushtak Estepho
As a new parent and as a long time resident of
Richmond, I believe we have a great public school
system and I would like to make sure it gets all the
support it needs to keep serving our children into the
future.
Mohamud Ali Farah
I want to improve the quality of our children's education
in Richmond.

DID YOU KNOW?

Candidate Profiles can be found at:
http://www.richmond-news.com/richmond-votes/profiles

Norm Goldstein
Originally, in 2011, I was concerned at how district
programs of choice and enrichment were discouraged in
our district. Since then, many more issues have bubbled
up that I feel I can contribute to solving:
Adequate funding to support our education model
An inclusive environment, so all students feel at home
at school, they learn about each other, and their needs
are met
A French immersion program that is available to all
students
Special needs programs for students with learning and
developmental disabilities
Specialty programs and academies for grabbing the
interest of like-minded, highly motivated students
Ken Hamaguchi
I believe in giving back to the community. I spent all my
school years in Richmond, as did my children, and I am
very appreciative for all they have given us. I also have
a certain skill set (over 30 years working with individuals
with autism and developmental disabilities, and over 10
years working with large organizations) which I think
would be an asset to the school district.
Jonathan Ho
I strongly believe in our public school system. Like 95%
of parents in Richmond, this is the only school system
that we can depend on helping and preparing our kids
for the challenging future. In fact, my 2 kids are both in
our public schools in Richmond. I am committed to
make our Richmond School District to be a leader in
public education by empowering our students to become
engaged and caring citizens of our community and
preparing them for the challenging future.
Kenneth Ho
As a long time resident of Richmond, I have been
involved in several youth groups in local communities. I
am concerned about the education of the students here.
I shall advocate for better preparation of students to
enter the job market and to live a successful life. As a
businessman for the past 29 years here in Richmond, I
have developed financial, management and relationshipbuilding skills that are useful in the School Board.

Kevin Lainchbury
I have lived in Richmond for 17 years, and my two
daughters have been in the Richmond School system
(oldest graduated in 2014, youngest in Grade 9). I have
been involved in the PACs at our elementary and
secondary schools, the music programs, and am active
in Scouts Canada working with youth. I strongly believe
in supporting our children, and they are the most
important thing at this stage of my life.
Now was the perfect time to engage in the system
further, and make a difference.
Peter Liu
I have two children who are in our Richmond public
schools and I am very supportive of public education.
Education is one of the most important elements in our
community, and it needs input from all stakeholders. I
can bring my experience, skills and energy to the system
by serving as a School Trustee.
Matt Pitcairn
My aspiration is to provide a strong voice for young
families and all parents in Richmond at the Board of
Education. I have a proven policymaking background,
and I am an effective communicator, which I will focus
on strengthening the lines of communication between all
stakeholders in the system.
After going through one of the most challenging periods
in the history of the B.C. education system, I believe it is
vital that we rebuild confidence and effective lines of
communication within the public school system and I will
work tirelessly towards this goal.
Donna Sargent
I wanted to become a School Trustee because I
passionately believe in Public Education and that every
child is entitled to the very best education possible.
Public Schools are the place where young people learn
how to become educated and caring members of
society. It is where the community is reflected and
celebrated. I believe I can continue to make a difference
and will continue to work hard to ensure our public
schools are strong and student achievement is always
improving.
Michael Starchuk
I want to have a positive and productive impact on
society. The successful growth of children is what I do
and I believe that becoming a School Trustee is a place
where I can have great impact. The Board is currently
not comprised of anyone with extensive time working
with children I think can be an asset in making balanced
decisions on policy and allotment of funds.

Debbie Tablotney
I ran for Trustee out of concern for support to special
needs students and cuts to fine arts programs in 2002.
Early diagnosis of learning challenges allows us to
provide the supports for students to become productive,
contributing members of society. Without support
students later become a burden on our social system.
All students are capable of achieving success provided
they have the necessary classroom enhancements to
assist in their learning. I have taken every opportunity to
press our government to provide funding to assist
teachers in providing quality education. I am committed
to continuing to press for adequate funding.
Jack Trovato
The BC Liberal government funds education $1,000.00
less per student than the national average, moreover, I
am especially alarmed about school closures,
overcrowded classrooms and the lack of support for
children with special needs. The BC Liberal government
promised to reduce class-size and class-composition
issues quite some time ago; however, students are still
waiting for the support they desperately need.
I am currently a public school teacher who has always
been passionate about advocating on behalf of a first
rate, high quality, well funded, public education system
for every British Columbian. As Trustee, I hope to
address these needs.
Alice S Wong
I believe that children are our future and they deserve
to have the best possible education. As a parent
myself, I want to contribute, so that students can
continue to receive high quality education. I want to
take my experience as an active volunteer in the
Richmond School District to the next level to advocate
for the benefit of public education. So that students can
have the best possible learning outcome.
Eric Yung
With 2 children in Garden City Elementary, I joined my
local PAC, and then headed the DPAC with a desire to
try and do my part supporting our children's education. I
want to be re-elected as School Trustee because there
are serious issues of budget, staffing and policies that I
want to influence and be part of the decision making. All
of this affects our kids - mine included - and I want to
make sure we get the right answers.

2. What do you think the role of a School Trustee should be?

Rod Belleza
The role of the trustee is to help the Board of its
functions to:
1. Formulate policy and delegate authority to staff,
2. Set developmental objectives
3. Determine the budget
4. Monitor and improve district performance and
student achievement
5. Communicate with parents and the community about
ongoing operations and emergent issues.
Trustees must advocate through the Board any issues
that may significantly affect the students and the District,
perform duties delegated by the Board and adhere to the
Trustee Code of Ethics.
Michael Cober
It is my understanding that the role of a school board
trustee is to support and advocate for an effective public
school system. We need to liaise with the community
and schools to build a public school system that is
reflective of our collective values and perspectives.
Beyond that I also believe that a school board trustee
needs to be a vocal advocate, communicator, and
educator to our local and provincial government of the
needs and shortcomings that need to be addressed in
order to improve our public system.
Moushtak Estepho
I think the role of the School Trustee is to be the bridge
between all the stakeholders to make sure the resources
are used in an optimum way to serve all the needs of all
the stakeholders in the public school system.
Mohamud Ali Farah
Richmond School Trustee engages with his/her
community in building and maintaining a school system
that reflects local priorities, values and expectations. A
school trustee listens to their community; guides the
work of their school district; and sets plans, policies and
the annual budget. Reflecting the strength of local
representation, the board reports back to his/her
community on how students are doing. Boards are
directly accountable to the people they serve.

DID YOU KNOW?

Advance polls are open November 1, 5, 6, 7
and 8. Information can be found at
http://www.richmond.ca/electionservices/voters
/votingplaces/(S(1jxk43omwkv3varikddak02a))/
advancelist.aspx

Norm Goldstein
Trustees have the responsibility to ensure that our
students receive the highest quality K-12 education that
we, as a district, are able. Trustees play several roles in
this regard:
Trustees form the Board that are responsible for the
writing of the policies by which the district runs, hiring
the superintendent of schools and overseeing the
writing of the budget.
Trustees are responsible to all the people of
Richmond. We speak with all stakeholders in our city,
to understand different points of view.
Trustees advocate with other levels of government
(mostly local and provincial), to resolve issues and
foster collaboration.
Ken Hamaguchi
be the "ears" (listen) and the "voice" (speak up) of the
school (students, parents, teachers, support staff and
administration) to the government
oversee school operations to ensure that goals and
standards are being met
support and empower students, parents, teachers,
support staff and administration, to help them achieve
their goals and objectives and minimize their obstacles
and barriers to achieve them
Jonathan Ho
A School Trustee plays an important role in our
education system for he/she been entrusted by the
public to set the policies of our most treasured
institutions: our public elementary and secondary
schools. A school Trustee set the vision by looking
ahead and planning for the district future. He/she needs
to assure a basis structure so that the district operates
according to sound policies and budgeting procedures.
He/she has to ensure accountability for students and
staff performance and for district resources.
Kenneth Ho
The School Trustees engage their communities in
building and maintaining a school system that reflects
local priorities, values and expectations. School trustees
listen to their communities; guide the work of their school
district; and set plans, policies and the annual budget.
Reflecting the strength of local representation, boards
report back to their communities on how students are
doing: boards are directly accountable to the people they
serve.

Kevin Lainchbury
According to the BCSTA, Trustees ...engage their
communities in building and maintaining a school system
that reflects local priorities, values and expectations.
School trustees listen to their communities; guide the
work of their school district; and set plans, policies and
the annual budget. Reflecting the strength of local
representation, boards report back to their communities
on how students are doing: boards are directly
accountable to the people they serve.
I believe Trustees are the bridge between the
stakeholders in the system, providing trusted access and
clear communication to ensure the best possible
outcomes. Trustees can consult with all of the
stakeholder groups and work with them.
Peter Liu
The role of School Trustee is six-fold. (1) preparing and
approving school district budgets and capital plans; (2)
employing staff necessary for school district operation
and ensuring they are adequately resourced; (3) setting
policy for the effective and efficient operation of schools;
(4) approving local courses and resources materials; (5)
establishing working conditions for staff (6) attending
regular meetings to establish communications with
community.
Matt Pitcairn
I believe the primary role of a School Trustee is to be a
strong advocate for School District 38 on behalf of all the
stakeholders within the system. I believe it is important
that the Board work together to collectively provide a
strong and well-communicated vision for the District, in
consultation with all stakeholders.
Some of the other essential roles of the Board of
Education include ensuring sound fiscal management,
ensuring effective policies are in place, which supports
the goals of the District, and protect our children, and
enabling effective local curriculum, which meets the
needs of students in Richmond.
Donna Sargent
The role of School Trustee is to improve student
achievement according to the needs of our community.
We must engage our community and partner groups
meaningfully and work together to improve and celebrate
our system. We must advocate for the needs of our
community to ensure that success.

DID YOU KNOW?

Not a registered voter? Need to change your
name or address? No problem. Just bring two
pieces of ID (one with address and one with
signature) to the poll.
List of acceptable ID: http://ow.ly/DEvVB

Michael Starchuk
A School Trustee should first a foremost stand up for the
rights of students and their right for a quality, well
rounded education. They should fight for funding that
meets the needs of a classroom that is functional and
constructive. They need to be in constant
communication with stakeholders to ensure that together
we are working toward a system that is open to creative
ideas that develop our students into positive contributing
members of society.
Debbie Tablotney
The role of Trustee is complex and demanding but very
rewarding. Trustees should be the ear to the ground as
well as the voice for the constituents they represent,
including all stakeholders and educational partners.
Trustees need to understand the budget process as well
as their role in setting policy and providing governance
to the public education system in their district and the
province. Trustees are advocates for the students and
education stakeholders and partners in their district.
Jack Trovato
More than ever, trustees need to be advocates for a well
funded public education system at various levels; they
should work on behalf of and for the unique needs of the
educational community. Trustees should encourage
constituents to participate in the school system and
familiarize them with procedures for bringing their views
before the board. Trustees should also act on complaints
or requests and assist in finding a resolution by working
with all members of the educational community.
Trustees should work with the provincial government in
the interest of education. They should liaise with the
provincial government and with local community
organizations and all educational stakeholders in the
district educational community.
Alice S Wong
Become familiar with Richmond School District policies
and procedures, meeting agendas and reports on
School Board business.
Participate in the decisions of the Richmond
School Board, providing the best solutions
possible for the benefit of public education.
Refer issues not covered by School Board policy,
to the Board for discussion, decision or
implementation.
Refer issues, raised by a parent or community
member, to the appropriate personnel for problem
solving.
Advise the Board on any issues that may
significantly affect the District.
Participate in professional development sessions
to stay current with education issues.
Become familiar with, and adhere to, the Trustee
Code of Ethics.

Eric Yung
As I stated in my profile, I believe the key role of School
Trustee is to advocate for the best education possible for
our kids - not just the best one we can afford. While we
do have serious powers of setting policy and choosing
senior staff, it is our advocacy for funding that remains

the most critical role of a Trustee. In addition, we are the

community link - it is our job to listen to all our
stakeholders and provide a bridge for the best
consensus decision making possible.

3. How have you been involved with the Richmond School District?
Rod Belleza
I am privileged to have served the Board of Education
for almost six years. I advocate for a prudent fiscal
management and good governance. I was able to help
the Board establish the Audit Committee, which helps
the Board in financial reporting, information systems and
risk management, audit and budget process.
I advocate for supporting students in need especially
those students impacted by child poverty. The Board
initiated some measures to address child poverty in our
district.
I also served in various Standing Committees, acted as
a liaison to assigned schools and performed other duties
delegated to me.
Michael Cober
Until recently my involvement has been limited. During
my college years I did spend several years coaching
boys volleyball at both J.N. Burnett and Richmond High.
Moushtak Estepho
I graduated from Richmond High School, and I have 6
brothers that all went through the Richmond School
District.
Mohamud Ali Farah
I have participated as a parent and I volunteered with
other parents to resolve some issues.
Norm Goldstein
I became involved with RSD when my son started grade
8, having completed his elementary schooling at an
independent school. I co-chaired the parent's group for
my son's program (the district Incentive program,
housed at MacNeill Secondary). The parents put in a lot
of energy to advocate for this program, and I,
subsequently, decided to run for trustee in 2011.
Since then, I have been a school trustee in Richmond. I
participate in Board meetings, committee meetings,
stakeholder meetings, PAC meetings, meetings with
principals, meetings with BCSTA and BCPSEA,
meetings with our MLAs and provincial ministers, and
meetings with parents.

Ken Hamaguchi
attended as a student for 12 years
involved as a parent (both kids have graduated)
working at school fundraisers, chairing Dry Grad
Committees, etc.
worked as an outside consultant over a 20 year period
with the district's student's with autism
worked as a Special Education Assistant at Thomas
Kidd Elementary school (many years ago!)
Jonathan Ho
I have been involved in the PAC and currently in the
School Planning Council of William Cook Elementary
School.
Kenneth Ho
My children already graduated from universities in BC. I
was not directly involved with the Richmond School
District for the past years. However, through friends who
are current teachers, school workers, and trustees, I got
to learn about the Richmond School District.
Kevin Lainchbury
I have been on the PACs at my children's elementary
and secondary schools, Parents of McNair Music
Association (POMMA), RDPA rep, and RDPA Member
at Large. As the RDPA rep, I have been on the
Calender Committee, Lockdown Committee and other
committees to report back to the parents and PACs, and
also to add our voice to the process. I have been
involved in the stakeholders' meetings with the Minister
of Education, and also the Stakeholder retreats
regarding the development of education plans.
Peter Liu
I have two children who go to school in our District. I
have helped many families communicate with the District
and I am very active in promoting public education in our
community.

Matt Pitcairn
I went to Lord Byng Elementary, followed by Steveston
Secondary for Grade 8, and then transferred to McMath
Secondary School when it first opened. I believe one of
the strengths I offer to the Board of Education is my
relevant and recent experience within the Public School
system.
Moving forward, with a young family, and hopefully more
children in the future, I will have a personal vested
interest in our local education system for many years to
come and will do everything in my power to ensure the
best quality of education possible for our youth.

Jack Trovato
To start, I was a student in Richmond from grades 6 to
high school graduation and I thoroughly enjoyed it and
have many fond memories of experiences and my
teachers. Admittedly, most of my current involvement
has been with the Burnaby School District since I am
currently a teacher in that district. However, the
conditions and concerns are the same in many districts
and I keep apprised (through the local newspaper,
district websites, and colleagues who teach in
Richmond) of what is happening within the Richmond
School District.

Donna Sargent
I have been involved with the Richmond School District
since 1991 when my daughter began kindergarten. I
have been involved with PAC/DPAC and have been a
School Trustee for 12 years and am currently the Board
Chairperson. I also recently was elected to our
provincial organization British Columbia School Trustees
Association (BCSTA) as Director.

Alice S Wong
I have been involved in public education since my son
attended kindergarten in 2001, volunteering in various
areas within the elementary school and secondary
school. My involvement includes: fund raising, hot
lunch, field trips, early warning, newsletter translation,
teacher aid, dry after grad, multicultural Friendship Club,
etc. I have served as PAC Chair at William Cook
Elementary and A.R. MacNeill Secondary School. I
have also served as Vice President of the Richmond
District Parents Association, as well as a member on the
School Planning Council and Annual Learning & the
Brain Conference Planning Committee.

Michael Starchuk
For the past 14 years I have worked for an Out of School
Care in Richmond. While there I have worked in 7
different schools (including 1 independent school) with
children, parents, teachers, administrators, EAs, Board
office employees, most levels of staff within the district.
Debbie Tablotney
I have served as Trustee for 9 years having served as
Chair of each of the Boards standing committees as well
as serving as Board Vice-Chair for two years. Previous
to being elected I was a member of my school PAC
throughout the years my three children attended school
as well as Chair of the Westwind PAC for 4 years and
Treasurer for RDPA for two years. I have always been a
passionate advocate for public education.

Eric Yung
I was the RDPA rep from Garden City PAC. I then
joined the RDPA executive, and succeeded to the RDPA
Presidency in 2008. From 2008-2011 as RDPA
president, I was vocal in supporting several initiatives,
including adding the parents voice to the issue of
increased funding for our school system. Since 2011,
I've served as Trustee, and this year, I am vice-chair to
the Board. I've served on various working groups of the
Board, and chaired Education committee for the last 3
years. I've maintained communications with all
stakeholder groups and tried to be the voice of all
concerns of the Richmond School District.

4. How has your involvement in the Richmond School District informed your perspective of public
education?
Rod Belleza
My involvement with the Board and the District provides
a broader perspective of public education. We cannot
enable each student to reach their individual potential
unless we put the needs of our children first. We need
members of the Board and MLAs in Victoria to put the
needs of our children first and to advocate for their
quality education.
We cannot provide the best quality education unless we
advocate for an adequate and consistent funding for our
students and staff. We need more support for our
teachers for teaching and their professional
developments.
Quality education provides a solid foundation for a
healthy, democratic and pluralistic society.
Michael Cober
I think any exposure to our public school system makes
it painfully clear how much the people who work in that
system care for our children and their success in life.
The amount of time, dedication, and generosity is very
apparent. It is also very clear where our systems
shortfalls lie, and the deep need to fix these problems
with more and better resources and funding. It seems to
me that our public education system is failing and we the
public (and government) are unaware of the degree to
which this is happening because of the dedication and
commitment of our public education system
professionals who are holding the system up at greater
and greater personal cost. It is admirable, but it is not
sustainable, and unless we make some significant
changes very soon we will soon start to see the deep
costs we are currently not addressing.
Moushtak Estepho
I believe we have a great school system, but it is under a
lot of pressure with inadequate funding and the lack of
resources to fully service the people of Richmond.
Mohamud Ali Farah
I want to participate and improve our current public
education and to develop the quality of our students
education so students have productive futures.

DID YOU KNOW?

Voter turnout in Richmond, for the Municipal
Election of 2011, was only 23.7 per cent.
Friends dont let friends get to the polls by
themselves. Carpool, vote and then go for a
coffee from City of Richmond Facebook page

Norm Goldstein
Before my son started high school, I did not know what a
school trustee was, nor anything about about inclusion.
As you can imagine, there was a steep learning curve for
me to, first of all, become an effective advocate for my
son's high school program, and then to become a
trustee in our school district. I have learned how difficult
it is for a member of the public to bring an issue to the
Board. The difficulty is not in submitting a brief or
receiving a response. Rather, the difficulty is in engaging
in meaningful communication.
Ken Hamaguchi
Over the years, I have worked with many Richmond
schools. I have observed "first hand", the difficulty in
working with students with challenging
behaviour/complex medical needs, and the stress it
places on everyone. It seems the kids are getting
tougher, but the SEA hrs and teacher support are
declining. My perspective of public education, is that
there are many good teachers, SEA's and support staff
who want the best for the kids, but are challenged to
provide a quality program, given the understaffing and
shrinking budgets for materials and resources
Jonathan Ho
We are so blessed to have one of the best public
educations in our school district and I am really proud of
it. We have so many great teachers to help our children
to be flourished in academic results. We also have a
great team of support staffs to keep our schools a safe
and healthy environment for our students. However, we
also face some challenges such as unstable, insufficient
funding. I will advocate for stable, adequate funding
from our provincial funding partner. I have to work with
our stakeholders as well as communities partners to
address these challenges.
Kenneth Ho
I have received and assimilated survey results and
statistics about the Richmond School District, including
the 2014 annual report. Through interviews and
discussions with friends who are teachers and school
workers in the District, I have gained insights that are
beyond the reports.

Kevin Lainchbury
I believe we have a very good education system in
Richmond, with a friendly working relationship amongst
the stakeholders. Through my involvement with the
PACs and RDPA and the various committees, I was able
to work with different groups, and hear their opinions and
learn more about the system.
I believe we can still find more ways to help more
children reach their potential, and promote the inherent
value of the partners.
Peter Liu
Public education provides equal and fair opportunities for
all students and it should be well-supported and
defended.
Matt Pitcairn
Almost every teacher I had from K-Grade 12 had a major
impact on who I am today. A teacher can be one of the
single biggest influences in a young child/adults life and I
still remember, and even keep in regular contact with
some of the exceptional Richmond teachers who made a
significant impact in my life.
But in order for a teacher to be effective, they must be
well supported by an effective Board of Education and
have the resources required to provide top quality
education to our youth. Richmond has a great public
school system but we can always strive to be better.
Donna Sargent
My involvement with the School District has increased
my passion and my resolve on how important public
education is to our city, province and country.
Michael Starchuk
My perspective is that public education is going to be as
successful as the people involved in it allows. The
Richmond School District is loaded with many great
people that care about what they do and will work
tirelessly for our students get the best education
possible. Public education is not adequately funded and
together we need to work to ensure that educators have
the resources for a well rounded education. The district
needs to encourage and embrace new ideas so that we
can be leaders in how public education is delivered and
managed.

DID YOU KNOW?

The City of Richmond has an Election App:
http://www.richmond.ca/electionservices/voters
/mobile-app.htm

Debbie Tablotney
Through my service on the Board and through our
Provincial and National Trustees Association I have
broadened my perspective of the education system.
Although our education system still faces many
challenges we continue to achieve high rankings locally,
provincially and globally. I have come to be proud of our
rankings and our successes however I believe we
should still strive for continuous improvement in areas
such as curriculum development and assessment
practices.
Jack Trovato
As an educator in Burnaby, I am well acquainted with the
various issues facing public education. Moreover, I
believe it is my civic duty to draw upon my personal and
professional experience to contribute to the educational
community, which I have called home for over 25 years.
I am committed to advocating on behalf of a first rate,
high quality, well funded public education system as the
cornerstone of a pluralistic, egalitarian, democratic
society. I am committed to educational policy and
actions that allow students, teachers, parents, support
staff, concerned citizens, and communities to work
together to meet the needs of all learners in our public
school system.
Alice S Wong
Serving in different volunteer capacities including
School Planning Council member of William Cook
Elementary and A.R. MacNeill Secondary School,
Vice President of the Richmond District Parents
Association have helped me gain much knowledge
and experience in the needs of public education in
Richmond School District. Some of the concerns
include: inadequate resources to support ELL
programs and special needs from the Provincial
and Federal Governments.
Eric Yung
These last 3 years as Trustee, the key relationship
between inadequate funding, and how it directly affects
everything from our facilities to our staff to our policies
has really changed my perspective of our public
education system. We have an excellent educational
system - but it is under constant degradation from lack of
resources. It is up to all of us to advocate and stand up
so that our children can continue to receive the best
education possible.

5. How will you work with the Richmond Teachers Association to address teacher concerns?
Rod Belleza
The Richmond District and myself value collaboration. It
is essential for the District and myself to work with our
stakeholders including the RTA. Continued engagement
and dialogue with the teachers to address their concerns
should be a priority of the District. We need to find a
teacher-focused and results-oriented solutions to
address teachers concern including class size and
composition. The District must provide the needs of our
teachers for teaching and professional development.
Michael Cober
In regards to working with the Richmond Teachers
Association my primary focus when it comes to
addressing teachers concerns is to first listen and learn.
I dont pretend to know all the details and problems.
Once I have an understanding of these challenges I
would use all available channels to communicate and
leverage change. It would be my hope that all Richmond
School Board trustees would band together to affect
change via advocacy, education, persistence and
editorial contribution.
Moushtak Estepho
I will make sure teachers concerns are addressed to all
the stakeholders. As we all know teachers are a vital
part of the public school system.
Mohamud Ali Farah
Yes.
Norm Goldstein
I have always been available to talk with the RTA. A
major concern of teachers is class size and composition.
In the next five years, we must work together-- teachers,
trustees and government -- to resolve this problem of
education philosophy, so that it does not, again, present
an impasse during labour negotiations in 5 years time.
There is a disconnect between education funding and
delivery, which we, as a province, must address, now. I
wrote an article in the Huffington Post to make clear to
everyone where I stand on this issue:
http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/norm-goldstein/bcteachers-class- size-composition_b_5955640.html
Ken Hamaguchi
I am a good listener and I am very accessible. As one
member of 7 trustees (if I am fortunate enough to get
elected), I would hope that all of us would operate that
way. Or are you asking me if I will shave my head, and
have "shame on you Christy" tattooed all over my body,
as my way of supporting you folks. - probably not. But I
am open to suggestions!

Jonathan Ho
I will commit to have Richmond Board of Education to
set regular meetings with Richmond Teachers
Association to listen to their concerns and improve our
communication.
Kenneth Ho
The teachers are one of the stakeholders and their
concerns are important. When I am elected, it is my wish
to have regular meetings with representatives of RTA in
order to have better understanding of their needs and
concerns.
Kevin Lainchbury
As per above, I believe in working with all the
stakeholders in the system. I would attend RTA
meetings and events to hear the issues firsthand and
bring these to the table for further discussion.
Peter Liu
Richmond Teachers Association is one of the most
important stakeholders in our public school system. I will
establish a close relationship with RTA and
communicate regularly to understand their issues and
concerns. I will bring their concerns to the table of Board
of School.
Matt Pitcairn
I am committed to having ongoing dialogue and
communication with the Richmond Teachers
Association. I will have a 100% open door policy with a
focus on listening, and I would invite all stakeholders
within the system to share their issues and concerns
with me as they arise.
I also want to work closely with the Richmond Teachers
Association to ensure that we are working together to
collect the relevant data, which will allow the Board to be
the strongest advocates possible for the district on
behalf of all its stakeholders.
Donna Sargent
I will continue to hold the teachers work in high regard
and I understand fully in order for our children to
succeed in school it will be through the work, passion
and care of the teacher. Ongoing communication with
teachers and the RTA to understand the concerns and
then working through them together and determining
what is the best way to advocate to address the
concerns.

DID YOU KNOW?

A list of Candidates Meetings can be found at:
http://www.richmond.ca/electionservices/voters
/allcandidatesmeetings.htm

Michael Starchuk
I will be an open book, I want to do what is best for
students within our district. To be able to do that we
need teachers that are happy and equipped with
adequate resources. I will be open to new ideas and will
work with teachers to get them to the classrooms. If
something is not right I will challenge our Board to
correct it.

Alice S Wong
If elected as School Trustee, I will ensure Richmond School
Board give the Richmond Teachers Association the proper
attention, it deserves by making a commitment to meet with
the RTA regularly. I believe consultations and discussions
are key to greater understanding and cooperation. I will work
closely with the RTA to find solutions that will help promote
public education in Richmond.

Debbie Tablotney
Our district has always valued the relationship with our
education partners. In light of the recent labor dispute it
is even more crucial for the Board to continue to nurture
its relationship with Teachers and provide a conduit for
them to voice their concerns and ideas moving forward.

Eric Yung
Communication is probably the biggest issue. I will do
my best to ensure that the RTA is informed of all actions
by the Board, and provide a consultative process so that
RTA can participate in the decision making of the school
district. I do NOT believe in top-down dictates, and hope
to foster a collaborative approach, so that RTA feels that
it is part of the team. This is what I think will best
address RTA concerns moving forward. I will let my
actions speak for themselves - ask your own RTA
executive how I have supported the RTA over the last 3
years as a Trustee and this year as vice-chair.

Jack Trovato
By consulting and engaging in a meaningful dialogue
with all educational stakeholders in an open,
transparent, inclusive, collaborative, accountable
manner. Every voice (students, parents, teachers,
support staff, and concerned citizens) deserves a seat at
the table. I would advocate that all educational
stakeholders be provided with an opportunity to engage
fully via consultation, participation, due process and
diligence.

6. In your role as Trustee, how will you support teachers in todays complex and demanding
classroom?
Rod Belleza
I will take a proactive leadership role in advocating for
support for teachers in todays complex and demanding
classroom. We need to address class size and
composition issues and the needs of teachers for
teaching and professional developments.
We need to have a dialogue with teachers to find a
teacher-focused and results-oriented solution to support
teachers in todays complex and demanding classroom.
If necessary, I will support engagement with the
community and stakeholders and to take political action
as needed including but not limited to working with
BCSTA, BCPSEA, MLAs, and the Ministry of Education.
Michael Cober
I feel there needs to be more critical and creative
thinking into how we could better support our teachers. I
think that a collection of case studies shared publicly,
and presented by an outside advocate might work to
better educate the general public on the seriousness of
some of the challenges educators face. Any meaningful,
valuable, long term change needs to be change that is
brought about by public awareness and understanding it gives us a foundation to to more effectively and clearly
communicate to our government leaders who
consistently act on their own assumptions.

Moushtak Estepho
I will make sure the resources are used efficiently and I
will strive into exploring different ways and methods of
delivering the education to our students and children.
Mohamud Ali Farah
As Richmond school Trustee, I will support teachers in
todays complex and demanding classroom. I will
establish a new Workload Fund, Wage increase,
Benefits, and Pregnancy/parental supplemental
employment benefits.
Norm Goldstein
There are various kinds of possible support:
Class size: Smaller classes (more teachers)
Class composition: More homogeneous classes
More EAs
Training: Professional development and courses.
Technological aids (e.g. smart boards)
Class size and EAs are highly coupled to funding
90% of our budget is for staff salaries. Class
composition is driven by our inclusion practice, and is
currently under review in our Inclusive Learning
Communities initiative. I would ask teachers what
training they would like, and what class room
technology they feel would be helpful.

Ken Hamaguchi
In the short run, I would like to incorporate the creativity
and resourcefulness of the schools (administration and
teachers), to see how we can utilize the current funding
and resources to provide the best possible program we
can. In the long run - there has to be advocacy to the
government to increase funding to the schools. As
School trustee, I would see my role as an advocate for
the school system, as being one of my most important
duties
Jonathan Ho
One of the role of a School Trustee is to communicate
with teachers. To understand the issues teachers face
at the grassroots level. Bring their concerns back to
other stakeholders, our provincial partner as well as to
the public. I truly believe that our teachers should have
the resources that they need to keep doing the job that
they have been doing so praiseworthy over the years.
Kenneth Ho
To optimize the class size and composition would allow
teachers to provide a better service. At the same time,
the Trustee should maintain effective use of the
available resources. It is always a balancing act.
Kevin Lainchbury
The role of the teacher seems to have slowly evolved
into the challenging position it is now. In consultation
with the RTA and stakeholder groups, I would bring the
issues and resource requirements to the Board to be
discussed and acted on.
Peter Liu
As a parent, I fully understand that education needs
more funding to support our classrooms. We need more
resources to deal with todays complex and demanding
teaching environment. If I am elected, I will advocate for
more funding from all levels of governments.
Matt Pitcairn
If elected, I am committed to being a strong advocate
with an open door policy and will engage in constructive
two- way dialogue with all stakeholders. I will do
everything in my power to understand the resource
demands required for success and also ensure that the
district is following established best practices to provide
top quality education for our leaders of tomorrow.
Donna Sargent
First you have to understand the classroom and the
ongoing changes to it by having ongoing communication
with teachers, staff and the RTA. The needs of our
teachers are very important as they are the ones who
will directly impact student achievement and student well
being. They must be valued and supported through
good professional development, support services and
continued advocacy to the Ministry of Education and the
public.

Michael Starchuk
I will be an active listener and learner. I will seek out
solutions to challenging issues facing classrooms today.
I will encourage an open dialogue that embraces new
ideas and constructive change.
Debbie Tablotney
It is important for Trustees to have continued
consultation with Teachers and understand their lived
experience in the classroom. This is crucial when
making budgetary decisions that affect teaching and
learning in our district. It is important to continue to have
the rich discussions during our dinner meetings with
RTA as well as the valuable input provided during our
stakeholders retreat. School and classroom visits prove
invaluable for Trustees to gain perspective from teachers
and administrators.
Jack Trovato
I would support ongoing professional development via
professional learning communities, and staff
collaboration at every level of the education community.
We should be knowledgeable about the school system
and stay informed about the societal and global trends in
educational practice that have an impact on student
achievement and well-being, and on the many aspects
of governing a school board. It is important for trustees
to be aware of the many changes that occur in
educational pedagogy, educational research, and ways
to support teachers and other members of the
educational community.
After all, teachers are the gate keepers of possibility for
our students, and the guardians of hope for an
egalitarian, pluralistic, democratic society.
Alice S Wong
I will take every opportunity to visit schools,
attending PAC meetings and school activities to
meet with parents, teachers and support staff to
receive input and feedback. This would help me to
make informed decisions to support our teachers.
Eric Yung
I will listen. The teacher is the educational specialist.
He or she delivers the education ultimately to our
children. I will do my best to listen to their concerns, and
support their actions to deliver an outstanding
educational system to our children. I will advocate.
Most of the issues in our system are not due to lack of
oversight or governance, they are due to lack of
resources/money. I will do my best to stand up and ask
the provincial government for more, stable funding
moving ahead. I have done both as a Trustee and if reelected, I will continue to do so.

7. Everyone agrees that a good education is the best investment. As a Trustee, what actions would
you take to ensure that public education is adequately funded? (According to Statistic Canada,
BCs per student funding is $1000 below the national average.)
Rod Belleza
RiteRichmond drafted and adopted a proposed
Students Charter declaring that the students deserve to
have an education that is holistic and adequately funded.
As a trustee I advocate for adequate and consistent
funding from the government.
I will work with the Board, BCSTA, BCPSEA, MLAs and
the Ministry to find solutions to the funding problem. If it
is not enough, I will engage with stakeholders and the
community to take more political actions as needed.
We need to empower parents, teachers, students, other
stakeholders, voters and taxpayers to strongly advocate
for adequate and consistent funding from the
government.
Michael Cober
I think it is unfortunate that a province like
British Columbia falls below average in per student
funding in Canada. Our failure to meet or even beat the
National average is the result of failure by
our Government to value the potential and future
contribution of our young people as much as they do our
natural resources. It is important that School Board
Trustees clearly, and repeatedly communicate to our
Government how important a well funded education
system is to the majority of voters in this province. We
need to communicate in a way that rises above the din
of corporate interest and the seemingly constant focus
on the exploitation of our natural resources
by international corporations.
Moushtak Estepho
As a School Trustee I will make sure all the avenues are
utilized to get more funding for our schools.
Mohamud Ali Farah
It is my top priority to increase BCs per student funding
by about $1000.00. As a prospective Richmond School
Trustee, I believe it is our mandate to fund all needs of
our students.
Norm Goldstein
To ensure public education is adequately funded, I
would continue to support our Board in advocating for
adequate and stable funding for public education. I
strongly support our district's Inclusive Learning
Communities initiative, which has the potential to
improve the class room situation, even under the current
funding level. I will also advocate for a provincial
initiative, as touched on in response #5, to get the
government, trustees and teachers onto the same page,
when it comes to funding public education. (To further
the $1000 discussion, I would ask RTA for the precise
calculation of that value.)

Ken Hamaguchi
Once again, it's all about advocacy. Trustees have to be
prepared to go to the government and demand proper
funding. And given the inevitable responses of "there is
no more money", trustees have to be prepared to hear
that answer, and then go back and make the same
funding requests. Determination and stamina are 2
qualities that trustees should have plenty of!
Jonathan Ho
I will keep on lobby our local MLAs and work with BC
School Trustees Association to advocate this issue to
office of the Minister of Education. I will work together
with all stakeholders groups and communicate these
challenges to the public.
Kenneth Ho
A balanced budget is mandatory. Without adequate
funding, some of the activities might have to be
cancelled or postponed. Hence it is critical for the
Trustees to continue negotiating with both the Federal
and Provincial government for more funding. We should
also look into fund-raising from private sector, as well as
from programs for international students.
Kevin Lainchbury
Investment in children is always the best investment,
and I will ensure that our children are receiving the best
education possible.
Peter Liu
Education is like other facets of our life - you only get out
what you put in. If I am elected, I will advocate for more
funding from all levels of government.
Matt Pitcairn
I have professional experience working with all levels of
government and would use this experience to provide
the Board with a constructive two-way dialogue with
government to ensure our students are receiving the
funding and support required for their future growth and
success.
In order to be the most effective advocate possible, I
want to work closely with teachers and other
stakeholders to make sure we have effective data
collection measures in place to provide a strong
foundation during these discussions.

Donna Sargent
I have worked tirelessly advocating for our public
education and my track record has shown it. I have met
with our MLAs, City Council, Community members,
Minister of Education, Ministry of Education to name a
few. I also put my name forward and was successful as
a Director on the Board of British Columbia Trustees
Association. It is my duty to ensure our system is
adequately funded and it will continue to be my most
important work. Advocacy needs to be continual and
ongoing throughout the whole year, every year and that
is what I have done.
Michael Starchuk
This is not something I can do alone. In order to raise
per student funding we need to gain more public
support. Many people that are not currently using public
education distant themselves from the issues facing our
system, we need to create ways to engage our
communities in the education of our youth. I will actively
work to educate and engage the public so that we can
work together in standing up for a properly funded well
rounded education for all.
Debbie Tablotney
I would continue to work with our Board and our
Provincial Association to press the government, our
Education Minister and our local MLAs for increased
funding to meet the National average or above. Districts
have received only small increases since 2011/12 and
the increases have been offset by rising costs of utilities,
group benefits, supplies, transportation and various cost
of living increases.
Jack Trovato
Simply put, I am committed to advocating on behalf of a
well funded, public education system for all students.
This involves supporting policies and actions that further

support and/or enhance the quality of education for

Richmond residents. Particularly, regarding:
Class size, class composition, specialist teachers,
educational assistants;
Adequate learning and teaching resources;
Expansion of academic enrichment and career related
program options;
Safe, welcoming, and inclusive schools;
Community involvement;
Parent advocacy;
Early childhood development;
Well maintained and clean facilities, and;
A commitment to "needs funding" rather than a
"balanced budget" that disregards the needs of our
educational community.
Alice S Wong
If elected as School Trustee, my priority will be
advocating for more resources for our schools
and students. I believe children are our future and
we must provide the best possible education.
I will advocate for provide a stable, predictable
funding for the Richmond School District to the
Provincial Government.
I will work with the BCSTA and our stakeholders
to advocate collectively to the Ministry of
Education.
Eric Yung
Unfortunately, Trustees no longer have the right to
directly affect the school district's funding. As such, I
can only suggest that 1) I will continue to advocate for
more, stable funding for our school district and 2)
explore any alternative means to generate income so
that our budgetary demands are met without cuts or
decreases. I have shown in the past I am more than
willing to be a vocal advocate, and will continue to talk to
our local MLAs and the press to make our cases to the
public at large.

8. What is your understanding of why class size, composition and staffing ratios are so critical to
teachers?
Rod Belleza
Talking to teachers and staff gave me a better
understanding of the issue on class size and
composition and staffing ratios. Many staff including
EAs were laid off due to budget cuts. Budget cuts erode
the effectiveness of our teachers in doing the best they
can due to lack of support in the classroom. In the end
the teachers feel that they are required to do more for
less and they dont feel good about it.
If this problem continues, organizational sustainability
will be an issue. We need to provide our teachers more
support for teaching and their professional development.

Michael Cober
Class sizes are increasing, Educational Assistants
positions are being cut or reduced, often classrooms
have more ELL students, more cultural diversity, more
accommodation for students issues challenges and
needs - how can the complexities of all these layers not
have an impact on how a teacher approaches the
classroom. And still the expectation is for the teacher to
successfully deliver the same content and learning
outcomes in the same amount of time with similar or
fewer resources. It defies logic to not see that class size,
composition and staffing ratios are critical to a students
learning experience and success.

Moushtak Estepho
I think these issues are very important to everyone
especially the students, because they can be the
determining factor in the student learning and
comprehension of the class curriculum.
Mohamud Ali Farah
Class size, composition and staffing ratios are so critical
to teachers because the process which balances the
rights of the District with the working conditions of the
teacher with the learning environment of the students,
ensuring adequate support services and resources in the
classroom and ratios would have to reflect the needs
and the realities of each local community.
Norm Goldstein
Class size and composition are major determinants for
teachers' working conditions, and for students to get the
attention they need to thrive. When you finish a day's
work, and you know that you did not achieve the qualify
of work that you are capable of, it is very painful. This is
compounded by the negative effect you know this has on
your students they are less likely to achieve their full
potentials. The situation is further compounded by the
frustration of the political history of how class size and
composition have been negotiated.
Ken Hamaguchi
Having worked with my clients with autism in the
Richmond school system, I know better than anyone the
mental, emotional and physical strain they put on a
classroom.
If they were in a class of 25 students, I can assure you
they take up far more than 4% of the teacher's time. It is
for this reason, that it is important that this be taken into
account when determining class size, composition and
staffing ratios
Jonathan Ho
To my understanding, class size is referring to how
many students in a class at any given time. Composition
refers to what kind of students make up a class. It
generally means the number of special needs students
in a class. Of course, these issues are critical to
teachers. Teachers in larger classes spend less time on
instruction and more time managing the misbehaviour of
students. A complex class will definitely put more
pressure on the teacher to meet the needs of all
students.
Kenneth Ho
Yes, class size, composition and staffing ratios are
important. It is always a challenge to maintain proper
balance between available resources and expenses.

Kevin Lainchbury
I understand there are various issues at work in
determining class size, composition and staffing ratios.
Some districts have language challenges, others have
cultural challenges, while others have special needs
challenges. A teacher cannot be expected to be 'all
things to all children'. I will work to have the best system
possible for our children.
Peter Liu
It is a challenge for teachers to reach all students when
the class size, composition and staff ratios are
unreasonable. I will look into with the RTA, other School
Trustees, and all stakeholders to see how it can be best
addressed.
Matt Pitcairn
We must ensure that teachers and classrooms are not
overloaded and must provide the necessary support to
help meet the needs of students with special needs, at
both ends of the spectrum. Class composition is key to
achieving this goal and I will work tirelessly to advocate
for increased resources, but also ensure we are doing
everything in our power to make the most of the
resources we currently have at hand.
Donna Sargent
The issues around class size and composition are
critical to teachers because they care about their
students and are trying their best to ensure their
students are successful. They see what they need and
want the very best for them.
Michael Starchuk
Time is something you cannot get back. When teachers
are working in their classroom they can only spend so
much time with each student. If a lot of their time is
spent with one or two students the others education will
suffer. Teachers are in the classroom to do what is right
for all their students and want to provide an excellent
education to all. If classroom conditions do not allow for
the all then we have failed them.
Debbie Tablotney
Classrooms are becoming increasingly complex and I
am well aware of the history surrounding this issue.
Simply put, what teachers are asking for in class size,
composition and staffing ratios is what is best for
students. It is of the utmost importance to have the
necessary supports in place to assist teachers in
meeting the growing demands of their students.

DID YOU KNOW?

You can find out where to vote by simply typing
in your address at the following link:
http://www.richmond.ca/electionservices/voters
/locationsearch.htm

Jack Trovato
Students deserve more one-on-one support for those
who need it most, and that involves guaranteed levels of
specialist teachers and educational assistants to ensure
they receive the support they need. Also, our students
deserve smaller classes, so that all students can get the
individual attention they deserve. Moreover, teachers
working conditions are our students learning conditions.
It has become increasingly challenging to address the
diverse learning needs of every student without
adequate support in place.
The role of education is to guide, encourage and assist
EVERY student in developing the attitudes, skills and
knowledge required to take pleasure from a productive
and satisfying life.
Alice S Wong
Every student deserves equitable access to
learning, opportunities for achievement and the
pursuit of excellence in their education.
I will support the inclusive policy in Richmond
School District

I will advocate for adequate and sustainable

resources for special education services
I will support continuous professional
development for teachers, enhancing teachers
abilities to provide the best teaching strategies
and practices for special need students
Eric Yung
Keeping track, and providing meaningful instruction to
increasing class sizes is already quite challenging. To
do so with special needs children in the class
(composition) results in situations where the needs of
the children cannot be addressed adequately or
appropriately. As staff is reduced, staffing ratios must
increase, and thus class sizes are affected. The
fundamental issue here is money - we must convince the
provincial government to better fund our education
system so we can get more staff, to have smaller and
less complex classrooms and provide better educational
opportunities for everyone.

9. What do you see are the implications of the governments B.C.s Skills for Jobs Blueprint: Reengineering Education and Training?
http://www.workbc.ca/WorkBC/media/WorkBC/Documents/Docs/Booklet_BCsBlueprint_web_140428.pdf
Rod Belleza
B.C. Skills for Jobs Blueprint sets out three objectives: A
head-start to hands-on learning, a shift in education and
training and a stronger partnership with industry and
labour to deliver training and apprenticeships.
The new curriculum focuses on training rather than
offering existing broad base-based education. The focus
might be on the needs of industry and business rather
than the educational needs of the students. Critical
thinking, communication, and other competencies will be
de-emphasized. Staffing and resources will be geared
towards the industry labour market trends and
developing workers rather than developing responsible
citizens. This limits individual potential and the long term
future of our public education will be uncertain.
Michael Cober
The Governments Skills for Jobs Blueprint seems like a
great opportunity for students who are looking to move
into the skilled trades sector to do so more quickly and
smoothly. It does however create another layer of
complexity for the public school system to
accommodate, administrate, and integrate with. In order
for the program to be truly successful it seems there will
have to be support and resources provided to the public
school system.

Moushtak Estepho
These are many changes that have to be worked out
with all the stakeholders because these changes will
impact everyone involved from the services provided to
the people providing these services. Major changes like
these require proper consultation from all sides to make
sure the intended benefits are utilized.
Mohamud Ali Farah
I think the implications of the governments B.C.s Skills
for Jobs Blueprint: Re-engineering Education and
Training are fine and I would encourage that it is further
improved.
Norm Goldstein
Clearly, the web site is currently incomplete each
school needs to be individually contacted, in order to get
information on options. But the overall concept is good.
As the information gets entered into the web site, it will
be a lot easier for families and students to find programs
that are right for them.. The province has a need for
skilled trades people, and the government's blueprint is
designed to address that need. The school districts have
the responsibility of educating our students, and I am
happy to expand out offerings in that respect.

Ken Hamaguchi
I have no problem providing students with different
options (vocational training in an academic setting). But
we have to be careful that the pendulum does not swing
too far to the "vocational side" and too far away from the
"academic side". I have always seen school as a "place
for higher learning" - we still need to develop "critical
thinkers". I would be a shame to see funding, resources,
etc. diverted from academic programs because the
government thinks we need future LNG workers. You
shouldn't "rob Peter, to pay Paul".
Jonathan Ho
This is the plan that B.C. government introduced to
address the changes of B.C.s economy in the coming
future. To my understanding, B.C. government is
looking to the education system to prepare a workforce
to accommodate this coming change. The focus of the
plan is to help our students find their fit earlier and
provide them a path from school to the workplace. I
support this plan, in principle. However, I believe the
B.C. government should consult with all the stakeholders
for it is an important shift in the focus of our education
system.
Kenneth Ho
The BCs Skills for Jobs Blueprint seems to be
preparing the students entering the job market after
graduation, by providing more information and options
for the students. This will be a definite help to those who
pursue a certain trade after graduation.
Kevin Lainchbury
The website is a good start to encourage discussion
about trades and education. We need to encourage
children to consider all the options available, including
the Red Seal Trades. By working with parents and
children earlier, we can develop an education plan suited
to the marketplace of the future.
Peter Liu
We need to find a balance between the needs of our
economy and labour market and the need to deliver
quality education to our children. Any potential changes
should be fully discussed with all stakeholders to
determine if they are the best route to provide the best
education for students. This includes the RTA.
Matt Pitcairn
We live in an ever-changing world, and we must always
strive as a society to provide relevant learning to our
youth. We must make sure our youth leave the public
school system as fully functioning members as society
and are able to get a good job which will supports ones
family.
I am not fully informed regarding this specific program,
but I support the concept. But based on conversations I
have had with education stakeholders, it appears that
the implementation of this initiative was flawed in that
there was a lack of proper consultation. I strongly believe

the government must consult with all stakeholders on

major initiatives, which have major implications, prior to
implementation.
Donna Sargent
The implication I see is that as a Trustee I was not
involved at all with this blueprint and therefore will be in
a reactionary mode with this. How can you re-engineer
education without including Trustees who are cogovernors and without our partners. The content of the
plan is not new for our district. As a Trustee I have been
advocating for a long time about how important Trades
Training is and that they should be valued and
supported.
Michael Starchuk
The idea is great! To be able to give students a head
start on a career in trades before graduation shows great
foresight. For this to be successful their needs to be
proper funding, that takes into the account having
qualified Tech Teachers and proper equipment. Most of
all students need to be exposed to different skills on a
consistent basis from early grades and promotion of the
benefits of trades to students should be of higher
importance.
Debbie Tablotney
Our district has trades and apprenticeship programs that
service students who are interested in pursuing careers
in specialized areas. I feel that it is important to provide
a range of choices in programs and offer skills training
as one of them. I do however hope that the necessary
funding for teacher training and pro-d among other costs
will be provided to support the renewed initiative.

Jack Trovato
The intent is to re-engineer K-12 programs to provide
more opportunity for trades training which shifts the
fundamental purpose of an enriched liberal arts and
humanities based education to preparing students for
trades training, and faster movement through secondary
school to get into the job market. The main focus is to
utilize $40 million to train children in LNG related jobs,
working to fill the estimated 1 million jobs that will,
presumably, come available in the industry.
The focus, as outlined in the proposal, is to move from
educating children to training them, leaving behind
the traditional public school educational experience, with
a focus on the whole child.

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Alice S Wong
This program will help British Columbians align their
training with in-demand jobs so they can be first in
line for jobs in B.C. It gives youth the chance to try
out different trades and get a head start on an
apprenticeship while they are still in high school. My
concerns are:
Inadequate resources provided by Ministry of
Education.
Lack of consultation with stakeholders before
implementing the B.C.s Skills for Jobs Blueprint.
Eric Yung
Simply put, the idea is not a bad one - but I worry where
the funding will come from. Giving our children
alternatives to seek different types of job opportunities is
a good idea. This particular model is at least moving in
the right direction for that. The details are where the
problems lie. Where are the qualified teachers to make
this a reality? How will they be employed and
supported? Who is responsible for curriculum
development? How do we pay for all these additional
resources? At the school district level, the last few
years, the Board has supported a concerted effort at
apprenticeship-level programs to help develop
alternative streams for post-secondary education. I
would continue to merge our own efforts with the
provincial plan, but hope the provincial government
would be more forthcoming with both funding and
details.

10. The BC government is currently seeking advice on creating a new co-governance model for the
public education sector including a move towards shared services. Do you see this idea as
beneficial, detrimental or both? Please explain.
Rod Belleza
First of all, we should know Provincial governments
definition of new co-governance model and its terms of
reference. The Boards and the trustees deserve to
know what kind of partnership we are having.
While there are some merits in the concept of shared
services, we need to know the pros and cons of
implementing it. We want the government to be
transparent and accountable for its policies and
initiatives. The public and the taxpayers deserve to
know from their representatives how public interest will
be served.
Unless we read the fine prints of the new governance
model, it is very hard to say whether it is beneficial or
not.
Michael Cober
A co-governance model for public education is a
proposal thats success will be determined by its
implementation and the motives of those involved in its
creation. If done with a focus on a high quality education
for all students enrolled in public education it could lead
to a better supported system with better resources that

positively affect the learning outcomes and school

experience of all students. Unfortunately, it could also be
done as a means to gain more control and influence
over the public school system. The results of
this relationship could be exceptional or disastrous, it is
an issue I need to gain a stronger understanding of and
monitor more closely its development and timeline.
Moushtak Estepho
At the present time I dont have enough information to
make a judgment on it. Once I am elected as a trustee
then I will review all the implications of it and I will make
sure it is communicated effectively to all the
stakeholders affected by the change.
Mohamud Ali Farah
The BC government is currently seeking advice on
creating a new co-governance model for the public
education sector including a move towards shared
services. I believe they need to study carefully the
situation. My vision is to improve the quality of public
education.

Norm Goldstein
The clear potential benefit is for less expensive
operations. However, I see the risk of delayed
responsiveness to needs and requests; for example, an
issue that already exists in our current scale of practice,
is that an order for a toner cartridge might be delayed
until enough such cartridges are being requested.
On co-governance, the main issue that I see is how
school boards can work with the government (rather
than with each other). There is a memorandum of
understanding with the Ministry of Education to work
collaboratively, yet trustees are consistently blind-sided
by MoE decisions e.g. the $40/day/student payments.
Ken Hamaguchi
One of the main reasons for settling the recent strike,
was the promise to work together and create a new "cogovernance model". It will be beneficial, if it actually
happens (i.e. meaningful dialogue that includes all the
stakeholders). It will be detrimental if the government
"pays lip service" to the stakeholders, and continues to
operate their own agenda". I suspect it will be "both".
The Government will listen to the point, where they can
no longer afford what is being discussed, and then shut
down the conversation. This is where my response the
Question # 7 comes into effect.
Jonathan Ho
I believe that a School Trustee play an important role in
our co-governance model and advocate for our public
school system. A School Trustee needs to work with our
provincial regulatory and funding partners and all the
stakeholders. I dont have information on this new cogovernance model but I am willing to learn and listen to
find out more on this model before I can make my
comment on this.
Kenneth Ho
The contract with Hadrian Educational Consulting is a
continuation of the contract with Surrey school
superintendent Mike McKay. I believe it is still in the
bidding stage. It is too early for me to comment. My
concern will be on how it will affect the wellness of the
students down the road.
Kevin Lainchbury
A new co-governance model for the public education
sector, including a move towards shared services could
be beneficial to the system as a whole, and the local
districts
Section 93 of the Constitution Act gives the Legislature
of British Columbia almost complete authority over BC
education matters. (Briefing notes on the Cogovernance Relationship between the Ministry of
Education, Boards of Education, and the BC School
Trustees Association, 2010-05-13)
Ultimately, a co-governance model whereby the dual
representation of the citizens by the elections of the
Legislative Assembly, and local School Trustees provide

a larger, provincial vision and scale, while also allowing

decisions to be made at the local level according to the
needs of that area. There cannot be a blanket order that
works equally well in all school districts.
Peter Liu
We need to have local decision making on the issues
that matter to parents, teachers and students. While we
can work more closely with government to find solutions,
we must have autonomy at the local level.
Matt Pitcairn
My understanding is that we currently have a cogovernance model for the public education system
between the Ministry of Education and local school
boards across the province. As I am not familiar with the
proposed new co- governance model, I cannot comment
on this issue at this time, but if elected I look forward to
learning more and providing a strong voice that serves
the best interests of all stakeholders within the
Richmond public school system.
Donna Sargent
Co-governance is an issue I as a Board member have
been actively working on. As a Trustee it is very difficult
to always be working in a reactionary way. New
initiatives come from the Ministry of Education and we
are not aware of them and therefore it very difficult to
prepare for them. I want to be cocreating by listening to
and involving our partners. I must always make sure we
are being fiscally responsible and ensure our resources
benefit our classroom. Shared services is one way of
doing that but only after we have had lengthy
discussions with our stakeholder partners.
Michael Starchuk
If the money savings is directed directly to the
classrooms then this is good. Each School District is
unique and should be treated as such; decisions for
each district should be made by people that reside within
that district. You cannot have a uniformed approach to
education so each district, school, educator and student
deserve to be handled individually.
Debbie Tablotney
Trustees have been requesting a new co-governance
model for many reasons not just for the purpose of
shared services. I and my colleagues feel that we are all
in this together as go-governors of the BC Education
system. The new model should include input from all of
our education partners to create a model that allows us
to work collaboratively to improve student achievement.
This will only be detrimental if the agreement is not
respected and followed as a living document and if all
voices are not included in its development.

Jack Trovato
The primary focus of co-governance and shared
services would be to centralize authority into several
super-boards throughout the province. The end result
would be a loss of jobs, and the creation of a new
faceless bureaucratic system.
Generally, the types of services included in a shared
services model include financial services including
accounts payable and accounts receivable;
procurement; human resources including payroll;
property and facilities management; and information
technology operations. It takes decision-making away
from the local level and places it elsewhere, and the
people most impacted have no voice in decisions. This
system creates a lack of accountability and impedes
meaningful communication amongst all educational
stakeholders.
Alice S Wong
I believe it can be both. On one hand, having shared
services will increase efficiency and bring budgetary
relief. But, we must not do this at the expense collective
bargaining agreement and job security for unionized

workers. We should not come to any conclusion until all

sides and factors have been discussed, such as working
conditions, staffing levels, and training. More importantly,
I expect the government to consult with all parties before
arriving at a decision and if elected trustee, I will make
sure our voices are heard.
Eric Yung
It's only beneficial since the current model, where
BCSTA representatives no longer control BCPSEA, is
broken. I would personally far rather the provincial
government fulfill its obligations under the Memorandum
of Understanding that was signed previously for the "old"
co-governance model, and just return to us our authority
to negotiate as BCPSEA. Realistically, it is impossible to
call it co-governance when the provincial government
fails to consult with us, and has the power to remove
Trustees at the Minister of Education's discretion. A new
model would only be beneficial if it truly took into account
the input from BC Trustees BEFORE decisions were
made.

The Executive Committee of the Richmond Teachers Association

encourages everyone to inform themselves about the candidates
and get out to vote on Saturday, November 15, 2014.

ALL CANDIDATES MEETING

FOR SCHOOL TRUSTEE CANDIDATES
** all candidates have indicated they will be in attendance **
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
7:00 9:00 p.m.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Richmond Secondary School

7171 Minoru Boulevard
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