By Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle
Three new trustees join School District No. 53 with the goal to enhance educational opportunities for students.
Sholeh Pickell, Karen Clayton and Christine Watson were sworn in along with incumbents during the inaugural meeting on Nov. 9.
Pickell represents Okanagan Falls and Area D, while Clayton joins Rob Zandee in representing the Town of Oliver and Area C.
Watson joins Debbie Marten in representing the Village of Keremeos and Areas B and G.
Casey Brouwer and Brenda Dorosz represent the Town of Osoyoos and Area A (rural Osoyoos).
Each trustee took their oath of office, with board chair Zandee congratulating the new and returning members.
Pickell told the Times Chronicle that she put her name forward because she currently has children attending Southern Okanagan Secondary School.
As a mom attending Parent Advisory Council meetings and previously serving as treasurer for Okanagan Falls Elementary, Pickell found that she really enjoyed the board meetings, particularly the reports.
“I felt engaged in the processes of the school board and I realized that I have time to serve the district in this capacity.”
Pickell thought that due to her perspective as a parent with kids currently engaged in the system, she could be a real-time voice on the board.
“I look forward to keeping in step with the priorities of the board as far as inclusion, vision and opportunities provided to students.”
Dorosz said she is honoured to be acclaimed to serve Osoyoos students and families for another four years.
“I love being a school trustee. I feel we are a very fiscally responsible board.”
Dorosz said a priority for her is to continue listening to the needs of students and help direct funding to continue “happy schools.”
She noted that district teachers and support staff are exceptional and that local schools provide outstanding results in student achievement.
“A priority for me is equity and mental wellness. We have increased funding in these areas, and I would like that to continue.”
Dorosz said she is very happy that both Osoyoos schools will soon be equipped with geo-thermal technology, which is very economical and earth friendly. She referred to upgrades to the heating and cooling systems at OSS and Osoyoos Elementary.
The trustee also said that advocating for funding in rural small schools continues to be important.
