Name: Linda Gilbert
Position for which you are running: Trustee - York Regions District School Board - Newmarket
Outline your background/experience (100-word limit):
My combined education, experience and well established connections in the community will represent you well. I hold a University degree in Business and an MBA in Organizational Behaviour. I have 20 years work experience from Corporate to Small Business Owner. I also have 20 years experience serving in leadership roles on Executive Boards in many capacities; from Chairperson to Treasurer. I served on the YRDSB Parent, Family and Community Engagement Advisory Committee (PEAC) for 4 years. I understand Board Governance. Strategic Planning and Budgeting. Please see my website for more information, www.linda-gilbert.com
What are the top four qualities required to be an effective municipal representative? (4-word limit):
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Integrity
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Accountability
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Inclusivity
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Communication
Explain why you are the best qualified candidate. (100-word limit):
As an engaged parent with a child in our school district, I bring a fresh perspective to the role of Trustee. I will be involved, proactive, accessible and responsive. I am passionate and personable, as well as professional. My credentials are strong and well-rounded. I will listen to the concerns of my constituents and represent them well, with a confident voice, at the Board table. I want to build a world class education system that inspires success, confidence and hope in each student. To ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed regardless of background, identity or personal circumstances.
What are the two most important issues for your ward/constituents? (200-word limit):
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Quality of Education-Student Success-Preparing our children for their futures
We need to improve student performance in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and prepare students with transferable life skills. We need to ensure that the content students are learning is up-to-date with the modern day realities that young people are facing. We need to ensure technology is leveraged in the classroom for 21st century learning, so that all students have the information they need to be productive and responsible citizens in our society.
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Equity & Well-Being: Physical, Mental, Emotional and Social
We need to continue to improve our school’s positive climate – to provide a learning environment that is safe, inclusive and accepting to all students. This has a powerful influence on students’ motivation to learn, acts as a protective factor for learning and positive life development; and contributes to improved academic outcomes, personal development and well-being.
What will you do to ensure you are accountable to your constituents? (50-word limit):
Accept responsibility, account for my actions and disclose information in a transparent manner. I aim to keep an open exchange with my constituents. I will hold regularly scheduled public forums and would like to have an on-line newsletter and meeting option available.
What is the most important issue for council/school board to address in the next term? (100-word limit):
Initially, the Board needs to get back on track and put our students first! Our focus is Student Achievement (the quality of the education) and the overall well-being of students-physical, mental, emotional and social.
The School Board needs to fully support the new directives from the Minister of Education. The Trustee’s need to rebuild trust in the community through accountability and transparency. Make available full information required for collaboration and collective decision making. My experience with training volunteer organizations in Board Governance will be invaluable.
Describe your dream project that would result in a better quality of life in Newmarket. (100-word limit):
Unplugged – Turn off your phones, shut down your screens and get out in nature.
Re-connect with self and others. Get out of the traditional classroom setting. Preferably an overnight getaway. Unrelated to school work. Programs themed around the seasons. Work with their hands and their brains. Build something – plant something. Physical activity and fresh air. Most kids aren’t getting enough of these outdoor experiences. Focus on teambuilding – randomly assigned group projects. Break down barriers. Mix up students from various grades, with different skills. Break up cliques. Push them outside their comfort zones. Bond new relationships and make ...
Yes or No? (1-word limit)
Are the school board’s equity and inclusivity policies working? No
Are the EQAO and large-scale testing a fair measurement of student achievement? No
Could the school board improve accountability to parents and students? Yes
Should trustees block followers on their board social media accounts? No
Should there be fixed terms for trustees? Yes
