Compiled by Hiroaki Sakai
By Jennifer McKenzie
Background: eer as a professional engineer, but now she says she donates much of her time to her three school-aged children and volunteer works in the community.
She moved to Centretown when she was a university student. Since then, she has lived there for almost 20 years.
McKenzie says she is an ardent advocate of public education. She is a member of two parents’ school councils within the district.
Main campaign issues: McKenzie says she is calling for a change in a recent condition-of-funding model from the provincial government.
She says she would like to change this model in order to provide well-equipped playgrounds and green space at schools, particularly one in downtown.
She adds that she wants to expand academic choice to keep children’s interest in school, such as well-designed mathematic and arts class. She says this school board should take the benefit from its rich multiculturalism to introduce a global perspective to all students.
On running:I am ready to devote my commitment, energy and experience to ensure that our community and children can be proud of a public education system that is second to none.
Joan Spice
Background: ttawa Carleton District School Board since 2000. She is a mother of one who has spent the last 22 years in Centretown.
Spice says she became more involved in educational associations, especially after retiring from being federal civil servant. She not only has the experience of being the incumbent trustee, but she is also on the board of directors for the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association and a board member at the Ottawa School Day Nursery.
Main campaign issues: Spice points to the present serious condition of the funding gap between the Ottawa Carleton District School Board and the Catholic Board and says she thinks fair funding from Queen’s Park is the new Board’s first priority. She says she thinks fair funding is urgent in certain areas, especially special education and English as a Second Language. She adds that she wants to preserve what is good in the current system — French immersion classes and a range of educational options.
On running: “Public education is my passion and I care deeply about the quality of education offered to our students. I will be a strong voice for Centretown students and our vibrant community schools.”