KnowYourVote Toronto

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Robert Pella

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a Catholic, I am committed to supporting every child’s unique, God-given potential. I will prioritize fair access to special education and arts programs across all Ward 1 schools. Every family deserves transparent access to the specialized resources their children need to thrive.

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Jennifer Di Francesco

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Being a mother of two who has navigated special education for my own children, I know families should not have to fight or understand the system’s inner workings to access support. I would prioritize fair, timely access to special education, language and arts programs based on student needs and community demand not postal code or family income. I would push for clear information, transparent wait-lists and decisions that address transportation, accessibility and barriers faced by families.

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Stephanie Loor Ruiz

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As trustee, I would ensure specialized programs remain accessible in every school, both in person and online. In a fast‑changing world shaped by AI, students need strong digital skills, support for diverse language learning, and spaces that preserve creativity. I would also prioritize giving students who need extra help the tools and resources to thrive.

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Rosanna Araujo

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Special education would be my top priority. As a Case Manager, I've worked with families raising children with complex needs and witnessed the barriers they face accessing essential supports. As Trustee, I would advocate for equitable access to specialized programs, more EAs, individualized learning supports, and resources closer to home. No family should have to fight or struggle for better support for their children.

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Teresa Colonna

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a trustee, I would prioritize fair access to specialized programs close to home. Children needing special education should receive support at their home school or nearby, with flexible participation guided by their individual needs. Arts nurture creativity and self expression, and every child deserves that opportunity. I support strong French language learning, reflecting Canada’s bilingual identity. I would advocate for resources so access to these programs does not depend on a family’s income or neighbourhood.

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Paul Salvatori

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I believe, as a School Board Trustee, that it is paramount that we not so much prioritize programs as prioritize the learning needs, interests and learning styles of students. Accordingly, I would be proactive in understanding and identifying these aspects of our students and ensuring that specialized programs are both offered and accessible in ways that respond to them. Every student should have the opportunity to engage in programs that are particularly suited to who they are as unique persons.

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Anton Perera

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

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.

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Nancy Crawford

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize special education and Catholic education while continuing to advocate for equitable distribution of programs and resources throughout the Board in all subject areas.

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Markus de Domenico

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

TCDSB is underfunded for the services we deliver to Special Ed students. The EAs that work with these students are burning out and students cannot attend classes because of a desperate lack of resources. This is fundamentally unfair to our most vulnerable learners. I support the International Language Programs offered at TCDSB. Learning language is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with their heritage. In Ward 2 I instituted the "Ward 2 Emerging Young Artist Competition" where students from K -12 submitted their art and music work

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Sara Concordia

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Every student should have a fair opportunity to access programs that help them learn, grow and succeed. As trustee, I would prioritize: Strong special-education programs and timely student supports Fair access to language, arts and other specialized programs Clear information so families understand their options I would listen to families, educators and students before making decisions. My goal would be to protect successful programs while making sure resources are shared fairly

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Ida Li Preti

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Specialized programs should reflect students’ strengths, interests and needs and lead to real opportunities. Working together, we expanded IB at St. Basil, created TCDSB’s first and only High-Performance Athletic Program at JCM, secured $1.5 million for JCM’s new Culinary and Hospitality program, introduced YAAACE, and built York University and Seneca partnerships. Next, we will expand OYAP and skilled trades, protect local special-education programs, and keep building strong academic, athletic, arts and career pathways right here in Ward 3.

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Susel Munoz Plasencia

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize equitable access, inclusion, and transparency. A student’s postal code, disability, family circumstances, or school should not determine whether they can access the support or program they need. Special education and ISP programs must be planned around the real needs of students and families, including transportation, staffing, classroom supports, and the logistics that make a program workable. Cuts to Special Ed is not a choice for me .

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Frank D'Amico

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Every student deserves the opportunity to participate in programs that help them succeed and reach their full potential. I would advocate for fair decisions, and responsible use of resources. I continue to support language and arts, and other specialized programs. Having served on Special Education Committee I understand the importance of providing appropriate support for students. Sometimes communication is not there, and the trustee doesn’t hear about the needs in certain schools, this is where the Trustee must make themselves available.

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Marissa Largo

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I know students thrive when they see their talents, identities, and needs reflected in school programs. As an athlete and artist, and the parent of athletes and artists, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of sport and the arts. They are opportunities for young people to develop confidence, resilience, community, and their God-given gifts. I also strongly support International Language Education and more support of MEDD/ISP students. As a Trustee, I would work to remove barriers and ensure equitable access to these programs.

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Mary Cury Paul

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would work to ensure all families have fair access to the programs they need. I would speak up for the international language program, which is moving from weekdays to Saturdays in 2026–27. As a Tamil language teacher, I understand how learning a heritage language helps children connect with their culture and feel a sense of belonging. I would also support arts programs, clear communication, and meaningful input from families. I would work to support proper and early identification of students’ needs and ensure they receive special education

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David Le

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

No child should feel left behind or believe the public school system has failed them. These programs should continue. Cutting them will only harm students. As a Trustee, I would allocate funding to special education classrooms and ensure students receive the support they need. I would develop policies to quickly identify students in need, which would also ease the strain on teachers. Amid recent threats to Canadian culture, I would advocate for fair funding for arts and French Immersion programs, as both are part of our identity.

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Jonathan Santos

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Every student should have the opportunity to discover where they can excel. I would work to ensure special education, language, arts and other specialized programs are accessible, responsive to student needs and supported with appropriate resources. Enrolment, demand and student outcomes should inform how programs are offered, alongside the voices of families, so geography or circumstance does not unnecessarily limit opportunity.

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Rosina Bonavota

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

My priorities are equity, transparency and decentralization to ensure specialized programs are fairly distributed and accessible. Trustees shape board policy, budgets and boundaries rather than managing schools day-to-day. During the annual budget process, I would advocate for creating or expanding a flexible reserve to respond to emerging needs for specialized programs. Data and community input would guide my efforts to identify gaps, support sustainable program delivery and ensure resources are directed where they are most needed.

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Matias de Dovitiis

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I voted to support and continue the expansion of specialized programs in the inner suburbs of Toronto. The policy helped to start two new programs in two of my schools while I was Trustee: a new arts programs at Westview Centennial and a new French Immersion program at Gracedale PS. On the other hand, we are seeing cuts and fees added to programs like Special Education and the International Baccalaureate program. These changes reduce access to important life-changing opportunities for out students that I cannot support.

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Marisa Sterling

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

“The basics” is not what families want for their kids. The public education system must offer both enrichment programming such as languages and the arts, and accommodations such as special education. Rather than dictate what the application process should be, I would empower staff to develop an equitable, program-specific process while expanding local school programming so that more students can realize their potential at their home schools. I support early intervention and aligning teacher credentials to specialized programs.

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Karen Emerson

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

School boards are being asked to meet increasingly complex student needs with inadequate resources. Trustees must protect what is essential, make access more equitable, and include families in decisions being made. Special education has to be a priority. These supports are not optional, they are what makes it possible for many students to learn and participate. Long waits for assessments, insufficient educational assistants and supports, and families having to fight for services are signs of a system that is not serving our children.

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Azim Dewan

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

These programs play an important role in developing students’ skills, confidence and future opportunities.As Trustee, I would advocate for adequate funding and fair distribution of specialized programs across schools so students do not have to travel far from their communities to access them. I would also work closely with parents, educators, and school councils to understand the needs of students and bring their concerns to the Board. My priority would be to make these programs more accessible and ensure that no student is left behind.

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Ahnaaf Hassan

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As school boards handle and fund a wide range of programs, many come as more important than others. At the top of this list, is special education. By prioritizing it, we prioritize giving every student a basic standard of learning. Specialized programs in high schools need to be evaluated on an application instead of a raffle, while still leaving space for students with issues accessing resources and supports. Finally, programming like languages and arts need to be offered more widely so students can explore the curriculum available.

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Md Sazibul Islam

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

My priority would be fair and accessible programming across Ward 10 and the TDSB. A student’s postal code, family income, disability or language should not prevent them from accessing suitable opportunities. I would support strong special-education services, language and arts programs, accessible transportation, and clear information for families. Decisions should be guided by student needs, community consultation and evidence, with regular reviews to identify and remove barriers.

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Jocelyne Poirier

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize timely special education assessments and supports, alongside strong French and other language programs, arts and athletics. Students should have access to opportunities that reflect their needs, abilities and interests. I would examine demand, program locations, transportation and barriers to participation, and listen to families and educators before supporting changes. My focus would be timely support, clear information and quality programs across our communities.

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Glenn Kremp

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

The most important aspect is we don't lose these programs to budget cuts. I would have meaningful community engagement in how the programs are offered. I would work to make sure parents and students know if they are interested, the criteria the student needs to meet. I would encourage and promote students to attend the open house events. Working with the students to also have a prep event that can prepare them for the application process.

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Ravicha Ravinthiran

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Growing up in the TDSB, I had the opportunity to take part in programs like Extended French and the International Baccalaureate program. I know firsthand how valuable these opportunities can be, and I will always advocate for strong investment in education and access to programs that help students grow. Where a student lives shouldn't determine the opportunities available to them. I would focus on making programs more accessible across the TDSB and addressing barriers like transportation, waitlists and a lack of clear information for families.

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Curtis Jack

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would work to direct funding toward EA staffing and professional supports to ensure that students with Intensive Support Programs and Individual Education plans are able to fulfill their needs within their home school and not need to bus out of area for assistance. I would work to review the board’s student transportation policy ensuring families that rely on transit are accepted into regional specialized programs have viable transit support.

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Dameon Halstead

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Every student is different, with their own strengths, interests, abilities, and needs. As a Trustee, I would make fair and equitable access to special education, language, arts, academic, and skilled-trades programs a priority, regardless of where students live or which school they attend. I would support clear criteria, remove barriers, and ensure resources are distributed fairly. I would also support expanding programs that meet student needs and review access so families clearly understand their options and can access the supports they need.

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Angus Grant

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I'd work to expand access to special education, language and arts programs across Toronto, with more local options wherever possible. Program locations should reflect assessed student needs, proximity and fair access, with transportation support where distance is a barrier. I'd support regular reviews to ensure programs meet students' needs and use resources effectively: fix what isn't working and redirect surplus resources to expand programming. Students in every neighbourhood should benefit. Our kids deserve it.

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Abdul Azeem Mohammed

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

My school-council experience has shown me that equitable access requires measurable accountability. As Trustee, I would push for school-by-school reporting on program capacity, enrolment, waitlists, staffing, placement timelines and geographic access. I would support annual reviews of gaps and publish progress against clear targets. Families should receive timely information and meaningful avenues to raise concerns. Specialized programs must be accessible, properly resourced and evaluated by outcomes and not just intentions.

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Gary McBean

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize fair access so every student, no matter their background or neighbourhood, can get into the programs they need. Many families struggle with long waitlists or programs that are far from home, so improving access is key. I would support clearer info for parents, more spaces in high demand programs, and stronger special education support across all schools. I would work to make sure language and arts programs are available in our city, not just a few areas. Supports students with learning needs, IEPs. Specialized classrooms.

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Darren Frake

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

A child’s postal code should never decide the quality of their education. I will focus on cutting the long wait times for special education testing so kids get the help they need right away. I also want to make sure popular programs, like music, arts, and languages, are spread out fairly across our community, not just concentrated in a few schools.

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Anu Sriskandarajah

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As your Trustee for the past eight years, I have prioritized equity and access in specialized programming, successfully advocating for new pathways like the Arts Program at Woburn CI, expanded French Immersion sites in Scarborough, and robust special education supports. My priority is ensuring these programs are equitably distributed across all neighbourhoods, especially in Scarborough, so students don't face long commutes. I will continue fighting for equitable funding, inclusive special education, and localized access so every child thrives.

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Sherri Williams

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a mother of five who all attended schools in this ward, I know children have different needs and talents. I would prioritize timely special education support and fair access to language and arts programs. I would advocate for programs close to home, clear information for families, and fewer financial and transportation barriers so every child has the opportunity to thrive.

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Aria Garcia

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a Public School Board Trustee, I'd prioritize the language programs of students who were born in other countries such as Asians and Muslim who struggle to study English subject as compared to those students who were born in Canada, U.S.A. and Europe who have acquired English words since birth. Secondly, I'd introduce new arts programming which are taught in these countries so we can all learn about their history. Thirdly, I'd change specialized programs to hire psychologists or therapists to teach sick students in special homes separately.

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Marcia Wilson

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

It's not about me.However,I realize that, Specialized education and language programs are very sensitive issues, when you attempt to make some happier, it inadvertently comes at the expense of the unhappiness of others.Therefore, with the power I am lent, I would only put my proverbial thumb on the scale, if the programs suggested may be crossing a harmful boundary. If such programs are proven helpful, then and only then,will I lend my support unequivocally for the greater good, which is always, towards a well rounded education for our children

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Ketan Purohit

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize fair access to TDSB’s specialized programs, including Special Education, French and other language programs, arts, STEM, IB and skilled-trades pathways. I would work to expand programs where demand is high, improve access across communities, and ensure clear and transparent admission processes. With specialized programs, we can connect students with the skills, experiences and career pathways towards successful employment and participation in the future workforce. I would seek Public-Private Partnership for hi-tech skills.

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Vimuththan Nantheeswarar

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

My priority would be updating the policy architecture that guides decision-making, accountability, transparency, access criteria, appeals, data-informed planning, and meaningful community engagement in how specialized programs are offered. I would champion equitable access standards that remove barriers related to geography, transportation, and historical exclusion. I would ensure special education supports are delivered equitably through timely assessments, student-centered services and community-informed planning that reflects evolving needs.

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Matthew Zaffino

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I want special education (spec ed) adequately supported. When spec ed is not adequately supported, it impacts all students: the spec ed students do not reach their full potential, and more disruptions occur in class, impacting non-spec ed students. This is a top funding priority for me. I grew up in a TDSB with a rich arts, music and languages offering. I believe this must be maintained. Programs like French immersion should be lottery-based when shortages occur. Admission to specialized art and music programs should be merit based.

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Timothy Ellis

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Toronto is a world-class city, and our children deserve world-class schools that allow them to pursue their education to the greatest extent their talents and inclinations allow. Conflict over access to specialized courses - especially in critical fields like the arts, which contribute billions to the Ontario economy - are a signal that demand is outstripping supply. We have a choice: we can arbitrarily ration access, or we can meet the demand and create the conditions for every child to achieve their full potential. I know what I choose.

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Ivan Voitsytskyi

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize fair access. Special education, language programs, and arts should be available to students who need them, not only to families who already know the system. A trustee should help parents understand how to apply and why a decision was made. I would ask the board to keep these programs in local schools where possible, so children in Etobicoke do not have to travel far.

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Alexis Dawson

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a Trustee, I will continue advocating for proper funding to ensure equitable access to high-quality special education. Too many students’ needs are unmet, which is a human rights issue. I voted against a special education report with cuts and will champion fully funded programming. I support reinstating Diagnostic Kindergarten and other spec ed programs that have been cut. We need more resources, not less. I’ll advocate for expanded elementary arts, math, science and technology programming to broaden access to high school Specialty programs.

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Andrew Waters

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As someone with a learning disability (dyslexia), I know personally how the right supports can help a student overcome barriers & succeed. I will prioritize strong special education, language, numeracy, and arts programs, with fair access across the TDSB. Students should receive the supports they need while also having opportunities to strive for excellence across the curriculum. I will push to remove barriers, invest based on student needs, & ensure specialized programs deliver meaningful results, including pay-what-you-can hot lunch programs.

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Jennifer Webster

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As a trustee I would prioritize more access to specialized programs like special education, language programs, arts, stem and other programs. The more choices we can offer our children the more doors open for their futures. I can feel the eye-rolling as people read this, but prioritizing a robust public education system, that creates well educated citizens provides a huge boost to the economic state of the province for the future.

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Daniel Choi

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Admissions to specialized programs changed last year. One appointed person made that call. Elected trustees had voted seventeen to three the other way, and no parent was asked. Whatever you think of the old rules, that isn’t how it should be decided. Portfolios and audition videos cost money many families don’t have. I’ll press for free application help before the next deadline. I advocated for equity in law school. Each year I’ll publish how many ward children applied and got in.

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Ivanna Andrusyak

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I believe school should be a place where every child has the opportunity to discover their talents, build confidence and find a path toward a bright future. Whether it’s through special education, languages, arts or other specialized programs, every child deserves the support they need to grow and succeed. I would listen closely to parents, teachers and students to understand where the gaps are and work toward fair access and more opportunities. It takes a village to raise a child, and our schools should help every child discover what they are

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Anthony Delpero

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

SSpecialized programs can be incredibly valuable and, for some students, can be just as impactfupecialized programs can be incredibly valuable and, for some students, can be just as impactful as the traditional curriculum. We need to ensure these programs are high quality, accessible to students, and led by people who are passionate and qualified. We also need to regularly evaluate their effectiveness. When a program is no longer meeting students’ needs, we should have the courage to make changes or move on, creating room for new opportunities.

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Andrew Massey

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

The equity vs. merit argument is based on fear and artificial scarcity from withheld provincial funding. We can do better. I would prioritize adopting a Proportional Allocation model that divides specialized program seats to proportionally mirror applicant pools and the broader student population. Something like Chicago’s CPS Tier System. The TDSB already has enough ethno-racial, demographic, and socioeconomic risk data to do this. Equitable, data-driven opportunities for the most deserving kids from every background is already possible.

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Jared Kolb

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Specialized programs should be accessible, high-quality, and responsive to student needs, regardless of where a student lives. As Trustee, I would prioritize supports for Model Schools and equitable access to special education, language, arts, and other specialized programs while reducing barriers created by geography, transportation, or limited spaces. My focus would be on supporting early intervention and ensuring resources are distributed fairly so every student can access programs that help them reach their full potential.

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Theo Nazary

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Special programs are important to many families in Ward 7 (University-Rosedale, Toronto-St.Paul, and Toronto-Centre). They give students the attention they need according to their unique attributes. As your TDSB Trustee, I will ensure these programs not only continue, but will advocate that access is increased (i.e. TOPS on Bloor). Investment must be made in International Baccalaureate (IB) and Leadership programs. These programs are all under scrutiny and I have the practical experience to stand up to Doug Ford, Paul Calandra, and Rohit Gupta.

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Andrene Gregory

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I had a child who was diagnosed with ADHD in grade two, and both children attended French immersion from kindergarten and later double majored in the Arts. Now my granddaughter is in French immersion and showing strong interest in the Arts. So, these issues are near and dear to my heart. While none of my children had an IEP, I had to navigate the system with diligence to ensure that my daughter with ADHD education was never compromised. This is where I believe in the importance of parental involvement and being a strong advocate for their child

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Maureen Larkin

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I believe that, in a publicly-funded education system, specialized program opportunities need to be made as widely available as possible. As a Trustee, I would make equity and access the guiding principles for specialized programs. Our school boards need to fund specialty programs in every neighbourhood, so as to maximize equitable access to these opportunities. I will advocate for sustained provincial investment in education so that specialized programs can be made more truly inclusive and accessible.

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Elina Feyginberg

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would advocate for enough resources to have the ability to run several programs. I believe students should be able to access additional programs of their particular interest. When prioritizing, I would consider the needs and priorities of each school on an individual basis. Each school will have specific set of needs and priorities that may differ from other schools. I would hold regular discussions with parents in order to determine the particular and unique programming needs of each school individually.

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Jennifer Volk

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Special education, French Immersion, arts and specialty schools, these programs matter. But the TDSB's own equity task force already found the problem: access to them often depends on your postal code, not your kid's needs. I want these programs to be excellent and actually open to everyone. We need to prioritize better programming in neighbourhood schools. Special ed support funded by real need. And public data on who's actually getting in, by race, income, and geography, so we can fix the gaps instead of just measuring them.

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Stacey Cline

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

My priority is to continue to offer specialized programming for students across the system. I will work to ensure there are located in places that are accessible to all students, and support learning opportunities for all students to explore their interests and get the support they require.

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Sarah Smithies

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

The province slashed its targeted special education funding allotment to the TDSB by $6.4 million. The provincial supervisor authorized the elimination of 15 specialized diagnostic kindergarten classes tailored for young children with complex developmental and physical needs. To absorb the remaining students, the board raised the maximum occupancy in these classes from 8 to 10 children! These cuts are shameful. I will fight to restore critical student supports, expand special education supports, and reinstate the Model Schools program.

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Saherla Osman

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Every student deserves an education that meets their needs. I would advocate for equitable access to special education and specialized programs. My work supporting children with disabilities has shown me the barriers families face navigating IEPs, accommodations, and services. I would push for transparent communication between schools and families regarding programming, fair resource distribution and ensuring students with disabilities and their families receive the support they need to succeed.

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Adam Golding

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

FUND THE ARTS has long been a cornerstone of all my campaigns, including for council, MP, and school board last time -- I am also a CODING and PIANO teacher and believe coding classes are a huge force multiplier for the arts, including computer music, graphic arts, game design, and storytelling. I will revamp the entire Ontario Coding Curriculum based on my open curriculum "The Goldingcode Curriculum" which I have already recommended to the Province in "What I Told Paul Calandra" on Substack.

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Tasha Kheiriddin

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Children have different abilities, interests and needs. I support strong special education, language, arts, academic and skilled-trades programs. I have advocated at the TDSB for fair, merit-based access to specialized programs and against the specialized school admissions lottery. My principles are equality, accessibility and student need: remove barriers, expand successful programs and give every child the chance to reach their potential. Special education classes should also be reduced from 10 to 8 students, as they were previously.

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Axel Arvizu

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize equitable access to specialized programs while recognizing that each student and community has different needs. As a Trustee, I would advocate for transparent criteria, fair distribution of resources, and meaningful input from students, parents and educators. Programs should be accessible, sustainable and supported by evidence, with particular attention to students who need additional supports. Every student should have the opportunity to discover their strengths and reach their potential.

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Deborah Williams

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

As your Trustee, I will continue to prioritize equitable access to high-quality programs for all students, regardless of where they live or their circumstances. Special Education, language, arts, and specialized programs should be responsive to student needs and accessible across the system. Model Schools are a proven investment with evidence of better early childhood outcomes, stronger academic achievement, and higher graduation rates. My public service is grounded in providing equity of access to learning opportunities for all students.

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Gladstone Cherrington

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs including special education language program and arts programming. I would prioritize the needs of students as well as the voices of parents in the decision making process. The “Model School” initiatives are examples of what is needed with each school reflecting the needs of the community while adhering to the guidelines set out by the Ministry of Education and the Provincial Government! Let’s invest in our students and they will succeed!

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Shaffni Nalir

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Special programs only work if students can access them and receive the support they need once they are there. I would prioritize: Protecting special education programs and adequate staffing. Expanding access without increasing class sizes at the expense of student needs. Keeping strong arts and language programs available across the city. Making the process easier for parents to understand. Looking at geographic gaps so a family's postal code does not limit a child's opportunities.

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Imran Khan

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

All of them ! Each one of them is critical ! We have to have broad spectrum of programs for everyone and access should be smooth - without any strings attached ! When it comes to Education we can not pick and choose for the students - Let them show what they like to learn ! And this way we stop waste of resources ! So why cherry-pick things that a Learner is not interested in ! Let us open all doors for them !

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Farzana Rajwani

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Specialized programs give students choice within the public education system; that said, I hope more secondary schools can become schools of choice with a variety of program options if the board fully implements its 2020 secondary school program review plan. However, that requires support and funding from the province. That is one report I will continue to advocate for implementing. Trustees can influence the geographic location of these programs to ensure there is equitable access.

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Dewitt Lee III

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

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

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Ibrahim Hatia

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

A child's future in Don Valley East and West should never be limited by which programs their family can reach. With French programs spread across different schools and entry points, I will push for clear information for all parents, reliable transport and learning support in both English and French. I will stand up for timely special education support and strong music and arts opportunities close to home. Parents will have my support in challenging barriers of cost, distance or confusing applications. Every child's talents deserve room to grow.

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Sonny Yeung

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

School boards make funding decisions! I would prioritize 1. Special Education 2. Language Programs then 3. Arts There is a five year wait for Autism funding under the Doug Ford Conservatives. In addition I would promote Science (S) Technology (T) Engineering (E) Mathematics (M) learning. As well as Financial Literacy.

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Bill Wu

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

I would prioritize fair access to strong programs across the TDSB while recognizing the different needs of each school community. Special education students should receive timely support and families should have clear information about available services. Language and arts programs should be offered transparently and without unnecessary barriers. I would listen to parents educators and students review demand and outcomes and support practical planning so program access is equitable across Ward 9.

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Carey De Pass

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

These programs and special schools are something that I notice that is very Toronto focused. I have lived in Halton, Hamilton and Peel Board regions and special programs like this are rare. Students in Hamilton, Halton and Peel still thrived and were functioning members of society without such frills. While I consider myself a progressive, I also feel as an elected official, one has to be careful when spending other people's money (taxpayers money). If the budget is tight and the results are lagging in core areas, focus money on the core.

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Christopher Mammoliti

School boards make decisions about the range and distribution of specialized programs, including special education, language programs, and arts programming. What would you prioritize as a School Board Trustee in how these programs are offered and accessed?

Special education resources are a massive gap in the current education system that we must address immediately. Our goal should be to ensure all students have access to programs, resources, and opportunities. I also believe that, for this to happen sustainably over the long term, we must be properly resourced, and that’s not where we are now. Trustees must continue to advocate for a healthy & funded public education system if we truly hope to achieve our goals.

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