Candidates vow to give their time to trustee position
By MARK PAVILONS Editor

Giving as much time as required to the job of public board trustee, will ensure solid representation for Caledon over the next four years.

And the four candidates for the job vow just that.

They had the first and only chance to introduce themselves and their platforms to the public at the all-candidates' meeting held last Wednesday, courtesy of the Kinsmen Club of Bolton.

Stan Cameron, a seasoned educator and advocate, said it's time for a change, new energy and a renewed interest in Caledon schools. As a professional educator who gets to make a

difference in the lives of others on a regular basis, Cameron wants to extend that to serve Caledon. The self-proclaimed advocate and problem-solver vows more communication and public meetings at each school on a regular basis.

Current trustee Valerie Arnold-Judge said she's been an active participant over the past nine years on issues that effect our students. She helped establish French at the Humberview and general interest adult courses in five Caledon schools. She's been a big booster of the antidrug DARE program which visits our schools. She's been involved in the board process that will see a new school in Palgrave, additions to several others, and methods to get the kids out of portables. The 15-year member of the Chamber of Commerce is also a huge supporter of anti-bullying measures.

Donna Hynes wants to help students achieve their full potential. They need to be taught responsibilities so they can be active members of their communities. In order to do that, they need safe learning environments, resources, quality teachers and updated facilities.

Her work as a marker with EQAO has been an eye-opening experience. She would be available to parents, students and teachers.

Albion's Josefine Scott said trustees are guardians over the policies, conducting themselves with professionalism and integrity. She will be a bridge between the voter and the school board and her bridge will "never be under construction." The key is to listen and pay attention and not let anything slip past.

When asked what they'd expect as students in today's school system, Arnold- Judge said she'd enjoy being in the regional arts program at Mayfield, and enjoying the many great programs in Caledon schools.

Hynes said she would like to help kids who struggle with a listening voice, and help direct them to the proper services.

Scott noted as a student she would hope to have clarity and not be concerned with the absolutes of success or failure.

Cameron stressed he would want to have a textbook and all the resources that were once abundant in the school system, but are sadly lacking today.

Arnold-Judge asked the candidates how much time they'd be prepared to give to the post.

Hynes said she's willing to give time each day, whatever is necessary.

Scott said she would make it a full-time commitment.

Cameron noted he's approached his employer who's behind him and would allow him to alter his schedule or pursue shared teaching to accommodate his responsibilities.

One woman wanted to know what the trustee will do to address the busing woes in Caledon and deficit faced in that department.

Cameron, known as a crusader for fair busing rates for regional arts students, said the costs of education shouldn't be downloaded to the parents. Every school has some great accomplishments which should be highlighted.

Arnold-Judge said there are 6,000 students in Peel whose parents have to get them to school. The board, or government, has never funded busing. But one resident pointed out that students are bused to French immersion, another voluntary program. This money, Arnold-Judge said, comes from the ministry.

Scott said where there's a will, there may be a way to solve busing problems.