Tribune article

Strong view on public education


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By KAESHA FORAND , TRIBUNE STAFF



As Sue Barnett's grandchildren enter the District School Board of Niagara education system, she wants to ensure they learn in a positive environment.

"I have a strong view of the public system. I feel the DSBN, specifically Welland, has a lot to offer staff and students. I care about kids, parents, teachers and principals' perspectives."

or those reasons, Barnett is in the running for the Welland DSBN trustee position. She filed her papers Sept. 8.

"I have grandchildren who are starting junior kindergarten and I decided this is the year to make a difference."

There needs to be more dialogue between all sections -- schools should be happy," she said, noting happy teachers lead to positive classrooms. For teachers to be happy, she believes the board needs to function properly with two-way dialogue between parents and schools.

"Every child deserves a first-class education."

The 60-year-old sees the need to meet budgets, but believes the board could undertake fundraising initiatives to help pay for additional programs at its schools.

Her children are all involved in the education system and Barnett understands the struggles teachers face, the need for an active school council and the need to bring neighbouring communities into schools to ensure it is a hub of activity.

Barnett is a retired laboratory technician with MDS (Life Labs) in St. Catharines. She has volunteered during previous elections, is a group commissioner for Scouts Canada and she helps with fundraising initiatives at various organizations.

She is also a parishioner at Holy Trinity Church and is involved with its work with Hope Centre, Salvation Army, Open Arms Mission, new immigrants and those in need through parish outreach.

"My pastoral outlook in life is to help those in need."

Identifying that need also includes collecting supplies for those new to town or buying shoes for a child in need.

Barnett is married to Gil and they have three children and four grandchildren.

If elected, she would encourage more dialogue between teachers, the teacher's union and the board.

"I would like to see everybody on the same page because education is the most important part of life."

Her election logo is a red feathered wing, because, she said with education you can soar to new heights.

kforand@wellandtribune.ca

Article ID# 2753466