Zeni Maartman

“Our public schools are being asked to do more with less. I will lead the push for a real increase in provincial funding for SD 68 — and prioritize public schools over private school funding.”

“Publish a plain-language annual budget breakdown, host open budget town halls, and tie every major expenditure to a measurable student outcome.”

“Every learner deserves to be seen, supported, safe, and genuinely welcomed. I will champion anti-racism, accessibility, and the wrap-around supports that let every child show up ready to learn — and I will lead a district-wide push against bullying in every form, so our schools are places of kindness and belonging where each student feels truly at home.”

“Advocate directly with the province to fund and streamline redesignations for students who need specialized support, such as autism; expand inclusive, SOGI-affirming education so every child is safe and welcome at school; run an equity audit of programs and outcomes; build a single, plain-language family pathway to services; and collaborate alongside the families of students with needs — because they know their children best and belong at the decision-making table.”

“Adopt evidence-based early reading instruction, invest in teacher professional development, and set transparent district-wide reading benchmarks from K–3.”

“90% of Grade 3 students reading at grade level by 2030.”

“Keep the Career Technical Centre a central focus of the district, strengthen the VIU partnership, and make sure every secondary student knows it's an option — so applied pathways are visible, accessible, and supported across all schools.”

“Build on our above-average counselor numbers by adding more capacity where it's needed, supporting every employee group's wellbeing, and partnering with local mental-health providers.”

“Put the best interests and wellbeing of all employees at the table: genuine consultation before staffing and workload changes, safe and healthy working conditions, mental-health supports for staff, and a real voice for every role — classroom to custodial to transportation.”

“Urban density of needs — expand learning-support staffing and modernize aging secondary campuses.”

“Publish a plain-language annual budget breakdown, host open budget town halls, and tie every major expenditure to a measurable student outcome.”

“Deepen partnership with the Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus First Nations — whose traditional territories the district resides within — and with community partners including the Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre and the Mid Island Métis Nation; expand Indigenous language programs, and ensure board decisions are informed by Indigenous voice.”