André Ouellette is running for re-election as commissioner of public schools

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André Ouellette will run for a second term as an administrator for the board of directors of the Grand Prairie Public School Division (GPPSD).
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Ouellete first became interested in running for the school board four years ago, because he felt he could bring a unique perspective to the board, based on his business experience as the owner of Curry’s. Jewlers with his brother Michael.
“I watched it for probably a year before the election and felt I could be a strong voice for public education in Grande Prairie and for public schools,” Ouellette said, adding “I’m not coming. thinking i know everything, so i’m ready to learn and listen to the other comments.
Now entering his second term, Ouellette continues to focus on mental health, wellness, and healthy eating options in school, and his new focus will be on the draft proposed curriculum. by the provincial government.
“I think it needs a rewrite, there are a lot of flaws and gaps in the curriculum,” Ouellette said.
Ouellette is also warning parents that the draft 7-12 schedule will be released soon as well.
“We need to be very aware of this and get more feedback from teachers and professionals because we don’t know what’s in there,” Ouellette said.
Ouellette is also very concerned about the prospect of further cuts to the public system’s budget.
“When it comes to funding, there seems to be a cut here, a cut there, and we really need to address that with our government as school counselors,” Ouellette said, adding that the kids have fallen behind. during COVID, and they will likely need more funding to get back on track.
Ouellette says there are a number of topics shaping public school in Alberta, including the new curriculum, student and teacher mental health, and the future of the arts in schools.
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“I think we have to focus on the big picture, there isn’t one specific topic you can focus on,” Ouellette said.
According to Ouellette, there are a lot of unfinished business that he hopes to tackle if he is re-elected.
“I will focus on the curriculum, government funding, and the mental health and well-being of our teachers and students,” Ouellette said.
“With any election, I think you have to research all the candidates, see where they are focused, what their platforms are,” Ouellette said, “and if that matches your beliefs I would say you vote for that person. . “
For more information on Ouellette and his campaign, voters are invited to check out his Facebook page at: https://m.facebook.com/AndreOuelletteForPublicSchoolTrustee/
The day of the municipal elections is October 18. The candidates for the post of Public School Trustee in alphabetical order are: Ray Buziak, Ryan van Drecht, Jheri Lynn Drover, James, Fletcher, Sydney Fletcher, Karna Germsheid, Alex Innes, Debra Jones, Chris Johnston, Troy Johnston, Donna Koch, Paulette L. Kurylo, Adrianne Larsen, Rob Martin, Ainsley Miller, Tammy Monro, Joan Nellis, Andre Ouellette and Joe Redhead.