Ken Tratch

Why do you want to serve as a Trustee for Holy Spirit Catholic Schools?

Through my service as trustee in recent years, I recognize the importance of maintaining a vigilant attitude towards our publicly funded Catholic Schools ensuring their continued existence and prosperity in our province. I want to be part of the team of trustees that will address the need to develop a comprehensive message and communication plan that will provide our Catholic and non-Catholic communities with timely information about the value and relevancy of Catholic Schools in our Alberta communities

In your opinion, what's the most important issue facing Catholic education today?

The most important issue facing Catholic education today is the threat of complacency within our Catholic communities and the growing rhetoric in Alberta that is once again advocating for an end to Catholic public schools.

Who was your most influential teacher/educator and why?

I was fortunate to have several influential individuals during my formative years at school and early years of work. The teacher/educators who had the greatest impact on my future were my parents. They instilled in me a strong study and work ethic that continues to today. They both emphasized that one should always strive to do the very best at any task you were given or volunteered for. That's why today I advocate for parents as the prime educators of their children.

If elected I hope to:

• Maintain a vigilant attitude towards our publicly funded Catholic Schools ensuring their continued existence and prosperity in our province,
• Advocate for predictable, sustainable and appropriate funding for classrooms,
• Advocate for teachers and board representation and a consultative voice on all matters relating to our schools, students, teachers and parents,
• Continue advocating for the renovation of existing schools and the construction of a new elementary school in West Lethbridge.

As a past Board Member I understand the importance of ensuring teachers have the time, materials and access through professional development opportunities to implement effective teaching techniques and information to serve their students in the most successful manner.

It is imperative that the Board and all staff maintain a positive and cooperative relationship as we are all about the same goal; ensuring student success.

I understand the importance of consultation with students, parents, teachers, school and district administrators and other trustees in developing the district goals, vision, operating budget and capital facilities plan.

My observation has been that Holy Spirit Catholic Schools have a history of excellent educational student results due to a caring and effective teaching staff. I wish to be a part of the team that will ensure this practice continues.

Contact:

• Phone: 403-308-4331
• Email: ken.tratch@gmail.ca