Dewitt Lee III

Trustees, the Board, and the Province

Finding a sustainable funding model for our schools is essential to preventing future disruptions caused by budget cuts. We must also create clear, reliable communication systems as trustees take responsibility for more schools, students and concerns. We are already building global learning partnerships & robust educational experiences, including the CAN/UK Black History Month Consortium, sistering Canadian and UK schools to share Black History Month curriculum in Oct & Feb, an esports mentoring program, and a supplies-for-teachers resource.

Bullying in Schools

Bullying and discrimination are distinct issues and should not be treated as the same. Both, however, can negatively affect students’ learning experiences and mental well-being. Both can occur between students or involve school staff & students, and neither can be tolerated. I plan to introduce Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day on Nov. 14th as an educational opportunity to teach students and teachers how to confront & overcome both bullying and racial discrimination. Ensuring heritage, cultural & community celebrations are maintained.

Class Sizes and Staffing

This is a direct result of budget cuts. I'm deeply concerned about teachers’ mental well-being as they work under increasingly difficult conditions. Students are also losing valuable teaching, mentoring & individual support that is all a part of the learning experience. As trustees, we can explore a volunteer brigade of unemployed teachers and community members, along with a student EA model, to provide additional classroom support for extra credit. We are also considering more school field trips to expand the classroom & split up the students

Special Programs and Program Access

Choosing which programs to prioritize is difficult because each serves an important segment of our community. I can say that special education services must be protected because vulnerable students and their families depend on consistent and quality support. For language and arts programs, we can seek qualified community partners willing to assist pro bono and ensure that programs remain available at least at one school in each City Ward, 15 and 16. We may also have to seek more online learning opportunities and expand to our local libraries