She鈥檚 been coined the 鈥渘ewcomer鈥� in this race, but Shelley Coburn remarks 鈥淎lthough I may be new to this race I am by no means new to this City.鈥�
She is running for one of the two 91原创 City seats on the Board of Education. Her competition is the two incumbent trustees.
Born in 91原创, Coburn attended both Nicomekl and Douglas Park schools. She currently resides in the City with her two sons, who attend schools in the district.
鈥淚 have strong ties to this community, my family roots run deep," she says.
Active in the school community and having served on two PAC executives as the DPAC representative, Coburn has become very familiar with the district鈥檚 Long Term Facilities Plan which contains 16 recommendations and represents the beginning of the ongoing dialogue with the school communities.
鈥淲e are about to undergo some fairly significant changes and we will be faced with some very difficult decisions,鈥� she says. "Although we are separated on a municipal level, we are joined as a school district and we should not see ourselves as separate. Any decision made is in effect a decision made for all.鈥�
In the past when changes in the configuration of schools has occurred, the consultation practice has been perceived as not being truly consultative, especially with regards to H.D. Stafford. Given the impact that it has had on the entire community, Coburn believes that any change to how the district is configured deserves a consultation process that is respectful and engaging, one that listens to all stakeholders.
鈥淐hange will always happen but what is important is how it is done and given that we are about to experience more change I want to make sure the City residents have a strong voice at the table 鈥� mine.鈥�
Coburn appreciates the direction of the district leadership team and wants to contribute to the integrity of the current board by playing her part in helping it get to where its mission, vision and values can take it.
Her background includes government and external relations, community engagement and youth work. In 2010 she was awarded the President鈥檚 Outstanding Graduate Award for academic excellence and community service from Kwantlen Polytechnic University. She holds a degree in political science and philosophy.
Currently she is enrolled at UBC, where she is earning her master鈥檚 degree in education. Her research is on education policy, specifically the new B.C. Education Plan, which is already being implemented throughout the Province.
She would like to hear from all members of the community and will make it a priority to discuss educational issues with all stakeholders. She can be reached at 604-868-1114 or shelleyfcoburn@gmail.com
