Victoria Holloway
Bio
Hello!
I am a proud Beaumont resident and mum of two. I value public education, and I’m an active participant in my kids’ school. I have served on the School Council Executive for the past two years, most recently as Vice Chair. In that role, I have been privileged to work with the Division on various initiatives. I’ve also engaged in advocacy work as a representative of our School Council at Alberta School Councils’ Association (ASCA) conferences, learning events, and meetings. It is invigorating to work alongside so many engaged parents, working together to advocate for change in public education.
Professionally, I am taking a break from my freelance editorial work to pursue Trusteeship. Before parenthood, I spent my career in the post-secondary sector, both in student service and in health promotion, where I focused on mental health.
I’m a committed lifelong learner. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (History) from the University of Alberta and an Editing Certificate from Simon Fraser University. I’ve taken many other courses, typically with social welfare and mental health themes, as well as 150+ professional development workshops on topics ranging from professional communication and conflict management to Mental Health First Aid.
I am an introvert who is running for public office; that is how frustrated I am with the state of public education in this province! My candidacy for BGSD Trustee is the only remaining route I can see to channel my energy into effective action.
Platform
Whatever our political affiliations, I think we can agree that all our children deserve to be successful, at school and in life. What that success looks like will be different for every child. Perhaps it’s building community, meeting academic goals, or overcoming personal challenges. Whatever the goal, our job as adults is to provide unwavering commitment, supporting each child to reach their full potential. That’s a job I take seriously as a parent and community member, and it’s one I’ll continue at the Board level. I see advocacy for students as the most important part of the Trustee role.
Each BGSD student brings a unique combination of gifts, experiences, perspectives, and identities to school. Every one of them deserves to be honoured, equitably supported, and included in the full spectrum of education. Current provincial legislation and funding models are making that difficult. Together with the rest of the Board, I’ll give it my all to turn the tide.
As a Trustee, my job will be to champion your concerns. In addition, I’m interested in the following areas:
- Funding: A lack of investment permeates every aspect of the student experience, from crowded classrooms and inadequate learning supports, to decreased time for individual student-teacher connection due to the demands of classroom behaviour management. Adequate funding is a key factor in setting every child up for success.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Commonalities build connection. Diversity strengthens it. I want to ensure all students and families are heard by the Board and in government. As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I'm especially keen to advocate on behalf of students from non-dominant groups and help amplify their voices.
- Mental Health: I have been a mental health advocate for decades. The mental well-being of our children and families has implications for individuals across the lifespan and for communities as a whole. Schools provide the perfect environment in which to identify needs for intervention and support, but they need investment to optimize that work.
Now is the time to effect change in public education. Get informed and get out to vote on October 20!
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.victoriaholloway.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581421313109
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vhfortrustee/