October 14 by-election called to restore Vancouver School Board

Rob Fleming  
Photo: Facebook

SAYING it’s time to restore the voice of Vancouver parents and citizens in how their schools are run, Education Minister Rob Fleming announced on Thursday a board of education by-election for October 14.

“Our government is restoring a democratically elected board of education to ensure legitimacy and fair representation for Vancouver residents and to better serve students,” Fleming said. “Re-establishing the board as a vehicle for public discussion, debate and decisions is part of our commitment to fix our education system.”

Fleming said that holding the by-election on the same day as a city council by-election will save the school district up to $1.5 million.

The school district has been without a board of education since October 2016, when the existing board was removed from office by the previous provincial government. Dianne Turner was then appointed official trustee of the Vancouver School Board, tasked with bringing stability to the district and improving financial stewardship.

Fleming has asked Turner to remain as a special advisor to help the newly elected board get up to speed, and she will play a key role in developing a transition plan to support the new trustees and staff.

“This is an opportunity for renewal that will benefit students, parents, teachers and staff,” Fleming said. “I look forward to working with an elected board to expedite seismic projects and improve programs for students in the Vancouver School District.”

 

THE City of Vancouver said that voters will be asked to elect one City councillor and nine school trustees.

On August 8, information packages for candidates will be available at vancouver.ca/byelection and at City Hall on the third floor in the City Clerk’s Office.

The nomination period for candidates is August 29 to September 8. During this time, candidates must submit their nomination documents declaring candidacy in the by-election.

General voting day is October 14 with voting stations open from 8am to 8pm at approximately 50 locations throughout Vancouver including schools, community centres, City Hall and one church.

All locations will be announced in the coming weeks including information on advance voting at vancouver.ca/byelection. The final candidates list and their profiles will be posted at the above link September 12.