2014 Election Archive

I can continue to make a difference for the children in Welland and build on what I have accomplished in the last four years. New buildings, additions, and school enhancements, including upgrading, French …language programs, Diamond Trail Public Library and expanded relationships speak to my ability to get things done for our city and our children. I will support our children if you support me. Our future…our children! I am proud to live in Welland with my husband Gil. We have 3 children and 5 grandchildren (one more on the way). Four children attend public school. I have actively supported The Food and Hygiene Pantry, been a long time Scouting volunteer and worked with children my entire life. I am a retired Lab Tech, but I continue learning through online and other types of courses. I am currently working on a degree in Social Sciences and Theology. I also volunteer at St Charles Village Senior Residence with Sunday church service monthly. I believe education is a life long journey and that we need to provide the best education we can for our children. I can help do this. More

My family and I like Welland. We have volunteered extensively for our community the past 10 years. I want to use my understanding, experience and qualifications to represent best interests of the children …and families of our city. You will get a fair, capable, hard-working trustee as your representative. Some areas for attention include close scrutiny of spending your education tax dollars, use of schools, effectiveness of current anti-bullying programs, trustee-parent communication. I was born and raised in Welland and have worked most of my life to improve the quality of education for our children. I have business and industry experience and degrees in education. Education Foundation of Niagara (Director 2004-14 - for winter clothing, nutrition, financial, swim to survive, eye glass support programs, Prom Project) Trustee DSBN 2003-06 (visited schools and parent councils, effective and positive working relationship with trustees and all education staff, gained special funding for Welland school programs, answered all parent/taxpayer enquiries.) Welland Neighborhood Project (Member 2005-12 - providing after-school activities, literacy, winter warmth programs) Community Legal Services Board (2011-2013) United Way South Niagara – volunteer (2004-14) Our 14 year old son is in grade 9 at Centennial SS. More

I am running because I want to provide leadership, collaboration, and a voice for the community. I have extensive experience serving on Boards, an educational background in Equity and Inclusion in Education, …and passion as a parent of a child currently in the DSBN. I believe in wholistic and inclusive education, where every child feels like they belong. We need more supports inside and outside the classroom. Academics are important. Physical education and extracurricular activities, the Arts, social studies, environmental sustainability, all are important. But let’s be clear - children cannot learn when they are hungry, suffering from mental health issues, or have various learning and/or physical abilities that demand education provide more social supports. I believe in transparency above all else, and as a trustee I will be accountable to you through regular communication, monthly newsletters, town halls, and community engagement meetings. Please visit www.JenniferAjandi.com for more information. More

I believe that student achievement should be the DSBN’s highest priority. Since student achievement looks different for all students, we need to support and encourage each student to achieve their own …full potential, and ensure engaged lifelong learners with critical thinking skills. Since parents are the customers of the DSBN, we need to support parent engagement to ensure their satisfaction with the education their child is receiving. Engaging parents in their child’s education improves student achievement, makes schools more welcoming, and creates a positive working environment for teachers and staff. Providing teachers and schools with all necessary resources to achieve these goals is imperative. As the guardian of the funds provided by the Ministry of Education, it is the DSBN’s responsibility to safeguard the needs of all students while being fiscally responsible. I have over 16 years’ experience on School Councils in multiple schools and on the DSBN Parent Involvement Committee, many years of community involvement, and over 30 years’ experience as a Law Clerk. I have experience hiring and supervising staff in multiple locations, and have responsibility for preparing and complying with budgets, drafting and reviewing policies, procedures and legislation, reviewing and improving efficiency and productivity while ensuring stakeholders are consulted, and drafting and implementing Change Management and Communication Plans. My professional and volunteer experience provide me with the skills that will enable me to be an effective trustee for Wainfleet and West Lincoln. More

Trustees need to ensure the fiscal stability of the district and to provide effective stewardship of the public’s dollars. The needs of every student must be paramount in key decisions and policies. This …is why my campaign slogan is: Every Child, Every Chance, Every Day. A school board is more effective when it seeks input from families and community members, and when there is more transparency in decision making. Diverse viewpoints should be taken into account, even though it may take more time – better decisions are made and greater community investment results when that time is taken. More information can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/votemichaelkamatovic More