The Penticton Western News will be providing coverage of all candidates in the 2022 municipal election. Each candidate for School District 67 Penticton school trustee has been asked to provide a short bio and answer 3 questions below. Below are candidate Lynn Kelsey’s bio and answers to three questions:
I moved to Penticton with my daughter in 1994. She attended school at Queens Park Elementary where I became involved in the Accreditation process. My daughter graduated from Pen Hi with Honours.
I am a retired Registered Nurse and I have worked in Penticton supporting individuals with severe physical disabilities. I also spent many years supporting adults and children with Autism, Down’s Syndrome, FASD and other intellectual challenges.
I was very involved with advocating for children at the Surrey School Board and was able to have a class opened for children with behavioural challenges. I also had portables installed at two elementary schools in order to relieve overcrowding and provide a healthier learning environment. I spent two years as the Health Care Co-ordinator for L’Heidli Ternneh First Nations in Prince George.I taught the Care Aide program at Sprott Shaw College in Penticton and Prince George.
I sat at the bargaining table for the Union in the social services sector for two years.For the last eleven years I have been a regular community advocate at Penticton city council.
1. The long-term facilities plan will be decided in the term you are elected. If it is determined that the best way to use educational spaces is to close a school, are you in favour of doing that?
I am now retired and have been able to be my granddaughter’s caregiver. She started Kindergarten this September.
1. The long-term facilities plan is a work in progress. Without all the options being thoroughly investigated, it would be premature to speculate what my decision would be. It is important to have all the information to make a responsible and smart decision.
2. What are the most pressing needs within the Okanagan Skaha School District?
2. Equitable education for all students of diverse abilities. It is also key to be financially responsible. I would also like to see education regarding substance use. I am a strong advocate for anti-bullying and providing a safe learning place.
3. What qualifies you to be a school trustee?
3. I have extensive experience working with school boards. I am an educator and passionate about children and excellence in education.
Trustees Forum Oct. 4
SD67 Okanagan Skaha trustee candidate Forum is being held on Tuesday, Oct. 4 from 7 until 9 p.m. at the IMC Building at 425 Jermyn Avenue. It is presented by CUPE 523 Unit SD67, Okanagan Skaha Teachers’ Union and Okanagan Skaha DPAC.
Hear trustee candidates speak about their platforms and be asked the hard pressing questions. Everyone is welcome.
The candidates vying for the four seats on the board table are: Shelley Clarke, Kate Hansen, Lynn Kelsey, James Palanio, Barb Sheppard and Tracy Van Raes.