Name: Cyrus Sy
Facebook: facebook.com/CyrusSyNW
Twitter: cyrus_sy
Email: [email protected]
Campaign phone: 778-863-7201
Website: cyrussy.ca
QUESTIONS (in 50 words or less unless specified)
Tell us about yourself. (100 words)
I have lived in New Westminster since 2007 with my wife and two kids (who attend Herbert Spencer Elementary and Glenbrook Middle School). I am passionate about causes that support children and parents. I have served as Board Chair with Parent Support Services Society of BC (PSSBC) and Board co-chair with the Kolumbia Inn Daycare Society (KIDS). I graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree and I have worked in the BC technology industry for nearly 20 years in engineering and marketing roles. My favorite pastimes include: running, photography and exploring new places.
What are the top 3 issues facing the New Westminster school board?
- Advocating for adequate funding as part of the provincial funding formula review.
- Ensuring that rebuild of the new high school, seismic upgrades of Richard McBride and Lord Tweedsmuir are completed on time.
- Ensuring adequate school and education support staff for students with special needs.
What do you think this school board has done well? What have they done wrong?
The positives: budget surplus, approval for new high school and seismic upgrades, diversity and inclusion initiatives (SOGI) and technology upgrades. Opportunities for improvement: improved two-way communication with parents, training and support for teachers on new technology in classrooms and creating strong environmental and sustainability policies.
What is your position on the school district’s involvement in May Day?
May Day is an important part of New Westminster heritage and is a valuable learning opportunity for our students. The district plays a key role to adhere to a fair process that engages all community stakeholders as we decide its future. The consultation process must be inclusive, fair and transparent.
What three people would you invite to a dinner party? (alive or dead)
I would invite Chris Hadfield (former Canadian astronaut) because my dream was to be an astronaut when I was growing up. I would also invite Ellen DeGeneres and Trevor Noah. I appreciate Ellen’s down-to-earth sense of humour and I admire Trevor’s ability to mix comedy and politics.
Editor's note: Candidates were given specific word count guidelines and were cut off if they went over the count.
