Bradnam: Duty of DSBN to provide safe, caring environment

My name is Alex Bradnam, and during my last 40-plus years in education, I have been involved in all aspects of the education field as a teacher, principal, federation president, health and safety representative, presently as the public school trustee for Niagara-on-the-Lake and St. Catharines. I am DSBN vice-chair, also chair of the policy, and student discipline committees. I’ve spent countless hours advocating for students with special needs and workplace health and safety issues, and am a member of the diversity, equity and inclusion, and strategic planning committees. I have taken part in writing curriculum, published letters and been a community representative for the parents’ involvement committee.

I see three top issues in this campaign. The first is providing learning recovery supports to catch up our students from COVID learning losses. Trustees have provided added funding, with provincial aid, to hire 40 elementary renewal support teachers in our elementary schools to assist in learning recovery and 10 renewal teachers in our secondary schools. We have also provided funding to access classroom tutors in all grades to help our students succeed.

Secondly, funding was provided to add six permanent social workers and enhanced programming to help students with mental health issues and support those who have felt isolated and/or are exhibiting negative feelings about returning to their schools after being away for so long.

Thirdly, it is the duty of the DSBN to provide all students and staff with a safe and caring environment so that they know that they are protected and respected, regardless of race, creed, gender and orientation. All students and staff will get the supports necessary inside and outside the classroom to thrive.

I’m not afraid to ask the tough questions, but in an atmosphere of respect and appreciation. Re-elect DSBN vice-chair Alex Bradnam.

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