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Norfolk voters have three choices in the race for Grand Erie District School Board trustee representing Wards 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6.
Eva Dixon, John Harris and incumbent Elizabeth Whiton are each looking to represent local families at the board table following the October 26 municipal election.
Dixon is no stranger to school board politics, having previously served three terms with the former Norfolk Board of Education and two terms with Grand Erie. She said her experience working with children is a major reason she wants to return.
One of Dixon’s priorities is getting more help into classrooms, particularly through educational assistants.
Harris said his interest in becoming a trustee grew from his own experience trying to navigate concerns involving a local school. He believes trustees should help families understand the education system and give their communities a voice.
Harris also wants the board to put greater attention on student achievement and well-being. He said locally elected trustees are particularly important as the province moves toward more centralized control of Ontario’s education system.
Whiton is seeking another term after serving as trustee for the area. Before joining the board, she spent 35 years with Grand Erie as a teacher, consultant and principal.
She said that experience gives her a strong understanding of Norfolk’s schools and communities.
Whiton said one of her biggest concerns heading into another term is support for students with special education needs and the impact that classroom integration can have on students and staff.
While the three candidates bring different backgrounds to the race, classroom support and ensuring Norfolk has a strong voice at Grand Erie are emerging as common themes.
Voters will make their choice when Norfolk County heads to the polls on October 26.
Written by Jeremy Hall
