Chris Durrant for OCDSB Trustee -Zone 6 Rideau-Vanier/Rideau-Rockcliffe. 

Every student deserves the chance to succeed.

When I was in Grade 10, I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dysgraphia.

For years, I struggled in aspects of school without understanding why. Once I finally received the support I needed, everything changed. Learning became easier, and my self-confidence increased.

That experience shaped who I am. It taught me how important it is for every student to receive the right support, at the right time, regardless of their family's circumstances.

Today, our school board faces serious challenges. The OCDSB remains under provincial supervision, difficult financial decisions are being made, and public confidence in the Board has been shaken. I believe Ottawa deserves a school board that earns back the trust of parents and the community and once again governs itself through locally elected trustees.

Getting there will require trustees who are constructive without being uncritical. A trustee's job is not simply to oppose decisions or approve them. It is to ask tough questions, understand how decisions will affect students, and hold the Board accountable for the choices it makes.

I will work collaboratively with fellow trustees, staff, and the Province wherever we can find common ground. But I will also speak up when our schools need more, push for clear answers about how resources are being used, and advocate persistently for the students and educators I represent.

As your trustee, I will advocate for:

• Better support for students with learning disabilities, including timely psychoeducational assessments, evidence-based reading instruction, and appropriate accommodations.

• Putting students first in budget decisions. I'll ask tough questions about where money is being spent, scrutinize proposed cuts, and push to protect the programs, classroom supports, and specialized professionals students rely on.

• Responsible, accountable local leadership. I'll work constructively with fellow trustees and the Province while asking tough questions and helping the OCDSB regain the trust needed to return to local governance.

I believe Ottawa deserves a school board that puts students first, works together respectfully, and is governed by the community.

🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️ ♿