Checking your connection

Heather Grieve

Candidate for School Trustee 73 - TEA1

I think this is an area where relationships really matter. Students need to feel that they are known, that there are adults in their school who they can go to, and that they will be listened to when they raise a concern.

Bullying and harassment need to be taken seriously, and students need to understand what respectful behaviour looks like and what happens when those expectations aren’t met. At the same time, I think we need to recognize that every situation is different and look at what is behind the behaviour, while still making sure students feel safe.

As a trustee, the role is to provide the policy, governance and oversight that supports safe and respectful schools. That includes understanding the data we have around student well-being, attendance, engagement and incidents of bullying or harassment, and asking whether the supports available to students and staff are meeting the needs we are seeing.

The Board needs to continue to listen to students, families and staff. They have a different perspective on what is happening in our schools, and that information is important when we are looking at whether policies and practices are actually working.

There are also increasing pressures on young people, including social media and the challenges that come with it. Supporting students and staff in understanding those issues, while maintaining appropriate boundaries around behaviour and technology, is part of creating a safe learning environment.

We know students need to feel safe, connected and respected at school, and staff need to feel supported in creating that environment. As a trustee, I believe my responsibility is to understand where the gaps are, ask the right questions, support effective practices, and help ensure that resources and budget priorities reflect the importance of student well-being.