^{(L-R) Supt. Romanchuk, Trustee Hansen, Trustee Klaassen, Board Chair Eckert, Minister Wilson, Trustee Martinson, MLA Boitchenko, MLA Lunty, Trustee Martin, Vice Chair Charpentier, and Assoc. Supt. Dargis.}

Every year, the Board of Trustees meets with elected officials in communities within the Division’s catchment area to share information and advocate for a strong public education system.

On September 20, the trustees met with Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson, MLA Brandon Lunty (Leduc-Beaumont), and MLA Andrew Boitchenko (Drayton Valley-Devon).

“One of our core values is relationships,” said Board Chair Esther Eckert. “The evening was a successful relationship building opportunity with our three MLAs. We appreciate their genuine interest in working with us and willingness to advocate for Black Gold.”

The wide-ranging discussions included the opening of the new Ohpaho Secondary School in Leduc; progress on the Calmar Collegiate School; the time-line and funding for the new high school in Beaumont; renovations to École Corinthia Park; the Thorsby schools traffic lights; cross-ministerial support for vulnerable students; Educational Assistant credentialing; and restoration of support for Alberta School Councils Association.

Vice Chair Angie Charpentier stated that the best way to advocate is to build strong relationships. “As trustees, we felt heard and understood, and I believe our messages were received,” said Vice Chair Angie Charpentier. “We look forward to working together to make a difference.”