Name: Dee Beattie
Twitter: @deebeattienw
Facebook: /deefortrustee
Website: www.deebeattie.ca
Email: deebeattienw@gmail.com
QUESTIONS (in 50 words or less unless specified)
Tell us about yourself. (100 words or less)
I am a mother of two grown sons, a nana to two adorable grandchildren, and a foster mom to a teenager. I retired after 25 years’ working with special needs and vulnerable youth. I volunteer my time with the McBride Sapperton RA, Royal City Musical Theatre, and Royal City Gogos, and serve on the New West Community and Social Issues Committee. I am passionate about education and what happens in the classroom.
What are the top 3 issues facing the New Westminster school board?
- Teacher and education assistant shortage, how do we recruit and retain the great educators?
- Funding and professional development for the new curriculum resources and implementation.
- Completion of New West Secondary, Richard McBride, and all seismic upgrades.
What do you think this school board has done well? What have they done wrong?
Well done- the replacement of NWSS, and the Sanctuary Schools Policy. I would like improvements in services for students with learning disabilities, at-risk youth, and programs for special needs children. On the doorstep, I hear from many parents they are unhappy with the implementation of the cultural fee in kindergarten.
What is your position on the school district’s involvement in May Day?
I want to see May Day continue; however, when I hear students go without needed learning resources and textbooks, I ask how we can do this better? I would like to support the May Day tradition, and what works best for all stakeholders in New Westminster.
What three people would you invite to a dinner party? (alive or dead)
Three outstanding people who would I would be honoured to have at my dinner party would be Malala Yousafzia, Prince William, and Jack Layton.
Editor's note: Candidates were given specific word count guidelines and were cut off if they went over the count.
