Anton Perera

Trustees, the Board, and the Province

The most important thing as a school board trustee would be to uphold and safeguard the values and teachings of Lord Jesus Christ and ensure religious dimension remain central to school life, curriculum and board policies. My parents and the teachers at the private Catholic school I attended have given me a strong foundation in the Catholic faith. Accountabilty and trustworthiness are of paramount importance to me as a trustee which I will uphold. My strengths in leadership, public speaking and negotiating will be an asset as a trustee.

Bullying in Schools

Work shops must be conducted for teachers and staff with the involvement of a professional counsellor with experience in this matter on how to address class room bullying and discrimination. Then teachers themselves can teach students with regard to a code of conduct in and out of the class room setting clear expectations. Teach social and emotional skills to students. Following the teaching of Lord Jesus Christ teach students to love one another regardless of their race and social background. From time to time conduct surveys among students

Class Sizes and Staffing

Discuss with trustees from other wards how they manage staffing problems and class room sizes and come to a collective plan and bring this up with the provincial education minister advocating for more funding. Look into the possibility of bringing back teachers who have retired early or semi retired to volunteer or work on a part time basis until staffing shortages are resolved with permanent qualified teachers. Evaluate the director of education from time to time to check how efficient and effective he has been in managing operations

Special Programs and Program Access

Allocating provincial and state educational funds to ensure special education programs are adequately equipped, staffed and housed. Balancing the budget while protecting critical student support services. Serving on or collaborating with the board’s special education advisory committee. Liaison with advocacy groups reviewing recommendations from local associations, families and experts. Developing and reviewing board-wide policies that guarantee a safe , welcoming and accessible learning environment for students of all abilities.