Heather McKenzie is seeking re-election as School District 27 trustee for Zone 4.
A member of the Williams Lake Indian Band, McKenzie grew up in the 150 Mile House area where her parents and grandparents pioneered and where she continues to live today.
“Having experienced the life style of 150 Mile, Big Lake, Likely and Horsefly, I feel to a large extent, great care for Zone 4, Area F,” McKenzie says.
She believes in quality education for all students; building positive relationships; and strong partnerships between schools and communities. She has been a trustee with School District 27 for four and a half years and has served on numerous board committees as well as being a member of the B.C. School Trustee Association’s education committee. McKenzie also has many years of experience in education administration with the Williams Lake Indian Band where she currently serves as the band’s education manager and a councillor representative for the Sugar Cane community.
“I ran for school board trustee because I thoroughly enjoy working in a team-oriented environment where the trustees work collaboratively together for the same goal — student success,” McKenzie says. “The work is demanding, but important and rewarding.”
She supports the board’s current direction of keeping the full operation of rural schools in perspective as this will continue to be an important issue. She says policies are continuously being developed, implemented and reviewed to provide accountability and ensure the best use of available funds.
“The focus on communities that care; vulnerable students is a very positive program and will continue to be necessary as a district focus,” McKenzie says. “We are a 21st century community where the barriers of prejudice and racism are now broken down.”
She says some brilliant recommendations for the 10-year plan have been presented by the district superintendent and staff and more time, research and involvement is necessary for the board to support and move decisions forward. Areas that could be improved upon include placing greater focus on communication and relationships within the board as at times the focus tends to be on division of board and staff decisions.
“To work more as a team is necessary,” McKenzie says. “Making team decisions together makes for the best interests of School District 27.”
