Darlene Vanderlee
Darlene Vanderlee is running for School Board Trustee in Zone 1 for the Near North District School Board.
Darlene Vanderlee has more than 30 years of experience in education, including teaching and consulting in a variety of areas. She holds a degree in Kinesiology from Western University, a Bachelor of Education from York University, and a master's degree in Child Development from Laurentian University. Darlene has volunteered in many capacities throughout her career, most recently serving on the board of the Nipissing Parry Sound Children's Aid Society.
Why are you running for this position?
I have always believed in community service and have volunteered in many capacities over my years. Combining that with my years of education have led me here, the next phase of involvement and one I have always thought about.
What do you love most about your community?
I love the beauty of North Bay, in both the landscape and the people. The sunsets over Lake Nipissing are so spectacular.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing public education in your community right now?
Currently the Board of Trustees has no authority and the Minister of Education has replaced it with an outside supervisor. I believe once the elections take place and new trustees are voted in as the democratic system deems authority should be reinstated. However, if it is not how will students, families, educators and community members have a voice this needs to change.
If elected, what is one thing you would like to accomplish during your term?
Reestablish good leadership, accountability, transparency and trust with our community members.
What does good school board governance look like to you?
Good board governance involves knowing your roles and responsibilities. Basing decisions on evidence, understanding fiscal responsibility, being ready to be held accountable and always ready to ask questions.
What does good local government look like to you?
A good local government is not one that works in individual silos, but one that builds a community of leaders.
If you received a $100K grant to invest in your local schools any way you wanted, what would you do with it?
I would do what it needs; reduce deficit, allocate money to special educational programs and school transportation. And finally allocate the rest to school playgrounds equipment.
How do you approach working with people who disagree with you?
My approach is to ask more questions to come to understand a differing perspective. We can grow and learn from tensions in very positive ways I welcome that.
What do you think students need most from their school board right now?
Students need emotional safety and a sense of belonging. Schools can offer a safe space for students to become involved in a community. We also need to support teachers so they can be fully present, feel safe and are not burnt out from lack of resources.
Where can people find you?
Email: darlenevanderlee29@gmail.com
