Education and the Barrie school board races

What the candidates have said

Mayor

Alex Nuttall

• Support Lakehead University and Georgian College campuses in downtown Barrie.

  Source: alexnuttall.ca, Commitments page, 'Community, education and jobs', item 09 'Downtown campuses'. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

• Created an after-school program with both school boards, opening school gyms to children.

  Source: alexnuttall.ca, Term in Review page, 'Children & Youth', first item. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

Kay Sayer

• We also need an overhaul in our school system,

  With transparency, parents, nurses, teachers and kids vote on what our children learn. They are the future taxpayers.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, BARRIE ELECTION: Mayoral candidates asked about top issues facing city, August 31, 2026 (paragraph 16, first quotation; paragraph 16, second quotation, first two sentences). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Ward 1

Ward 2

Ward 3

Ward 4

Ward 5

No published statement on this issue located for 2 candidates. Campaign website read, nothing located on this issue (October 7, 2026): Duarte Da Silva, Robert Thomson. Indexed news coverage checked October 15, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 6

Christel Pena

• In recent years, reductions in school bus service have increased traffic congestion around local schools and created additional challenges for parents. I will advocate with local school boards to review transportation changes and explore opportunities to restore or improve service where it is needed most.

  Source: www.votechristel.ca, 'My Vision for Ward 6' page, under 'School Transportation & Safer School Access', paragraph 2. Page. Undated; archived September 10, 2026. Official site

Ward 7

Ward 8

No published statement on this issue located for 3 candidates. Campaign website read, nothing located on this issue (October 7, 2026): Samina Alim, Jim Harris, Amanda Fellows. Indexed news coverage checked October 15, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 9

No published statement on this issue located for 4 candidates. Campaign website read, nothing located on this issue (October 7, 2026): Norm Costello, Sergio Morales, Asmar Naveed, Dave Weingarten. Indexed news coverage checked October 15, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Ward 10

Simcoe County District School Board — Barrie Wards 1, 2, 3

Wes Ayranto

• I’m running because I believe parents deserve to know what is happening in their children’s schools. As a parent, I haven’t always felt informed and that needs to change.

  I will work to make sure parents are informed, concerns are addressed and our community has a strong voice in the decisions affecting our schools. I’m not running to fight political battles.

  If elected, I will bring that same approach to the trustee’s role: listen to families, ask the tough questions, communicate openly and work for better outcomes for our students.

  Source: votewesayranto.com, About Me page, paragraph 2; About Me page, paragraph 8, first two sentences; About Me page, paragraph 10. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

• 'A trustee should be ... someone who listens, asks questions, demands accountability and helps families understand what the board is doing and why,' says Wesley Ayranto

  Families deserve clear, timely and accessible information about school programs, student safety, school conditions and the decisions that directly affect their children. As your trustee, I will listen to parents and students, communicate clearly, ask the tough questions and make sure your concerns are heard at the board table.

  My priorities are straightforward: better communication, stronger accountability, safe and positive learning environments, and practical improvements that help students succeed.

  A trustee should be a voice for the community — someone who listens, asks questions, demands accountability and helps families understand what the board is doing and why.

  But that does not make the role of trustee less important. It makes strong local representation more important.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, School trustee candidate wants to keep Barrie parents informed, September 5, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived); paragraph 4; paragraph 10; paragraph 8, counting the editor's note; paragraph 7, counting the editor's note). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

David William O'Brien

• This issue is not going away, and while trustees do not get  involved in school  operations, we  can acknowledge that this is an issue; ask questions and advocate for all schools  to be safe welcoming spaces  for everyone.

  While the provincial government has seen increases in the base  funding for  education, that funding has not kept pace with inflation or the rising costs in 2026 dollars for many of these  necessary and   underfunded services and supports.

  Therefore the funds collected  no longer cover the cost of future land purchases which are the first steps to building a new school. This needs to change.

  Source: davidwilliamobrien.wixsite.com, Current Issues page, under 'Bullying in Schools', last sentence; Current Issues page, under 'Advocate for more funding', second sentence; Current Issues page, under 'C. Need to Increase the Education Development Charges', last two sentences. Page. Undated; archived September 10, 2026. Official site

• 'Many of the root causes are linked to a lack of funds from the province to provide the necessary supports and staffing needed within our schools,’ says David O'Brien

  There are a number of ongoing issues facing the SCDSB. I believe that many of them including incidents of bullying; violence in our schools can be, in part, attributed to the strains being put on the public education system.

  This provincial underfunding also includes insufficient funding formulas for busing and special education, as well as the critical need to build new schools to combat the growing over-crowding in schools and the problems this creates.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Barrie trustee candidate says school violence must be addressed, August 30, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived); paragraph 11; paragraph 12, second sentence). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Tim Ware

• 'It’s good to be involved and be able to help create a nurturing, safe and fun educational environment,' says Tim Ware

  As such, I have the well-rounded experience needed to evaluate major projects, ask the questions that lead to the best possible proposals and involve all the public education stakeholders — students, parents, teachers, staff and the wider community — to make sure the board focuses on the initiatives with the highest impact.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Barrie parent looks to move from school volunteer into trustee role, September 7, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived); paragraph 9, second sentence). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Simcoe County District School Board — Barrie Wards 4, 5, 6

Beth Mouratidis

• These experiences have reinforced for me how important it is to have policies that put students first and support the needs of families.

  I continued to advocate for the board to encourage parents to have their children’s eyes tested, an issue that holds particular personal meaning for me.

  I successfully delegated before the board on two occasions. The first was regarding the need for a comprehensive policy for dealing with head lice.

  The second delegation addressed the need for appropriate student supervision during recess.

  My granddaughter will be entering the school system in the not-too-distant future, and I want to help ensure that she and all students have access to the best education system we can provide.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Former school trustee eyes return to 'incredibly rewarding' role, September 4, 2026 (paragraph 6, second sentence; paragraph 8, second sentence; paragraph 5, first two sentences; paragraph 5, fourth sentence; paragraph 10). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Dana Powell

• Our fundamental responsibility must remain giving every student the opportunity to learn, succeed and reach their potential. That requires strong classroom instruction, safe and supportive schools, and appropriate resources for students who need additional assistance, and responsible stewardship of public money.

  I continue to believe strongly in supporting students with special education needs and ensuring parents have a meaningful voice in their children's education.

  I also believe public confidence matters. School boards must listen to the communities they serve, operate transparently and be accountable for the decisions they make.

  Four years of experience have reinforced for me that there is no single or simple answer to the challenges facing public education.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, 'Public confidence matters,' says Barrie trustee candidate, September 2, 2026 (paragraph 6, second and third sentences; paragraph 7; paragraph 8; paragraph 6, first sentence). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Candice Thomas

• Supporting students with complex needs and protecting the safety and learning environment of the entire classroom are not opposing goals. We need to do both. I will advocate for appropriate resources, meaningful supports and solutions that consider the needs of students, educators and families.

  I will advocate for meaningful student supports, adequate staffing and resources, and a system that allows educators to properly support the children in their care.

  School capacity, new school construction, staffing and resources require proactive planning, not simply reacting once schools are already overcrowded.

  Source: candicefortrustee.ca, Home page, 'What I'll advocate for', 'Safe & Supportive Schools' paragraph, third and fourth sentences; Home page, 'What I'll advocate for', 'The Support Every Child Needs' paragraph, last sentence; Home page, 'What I'll advocate for', 'Planning Ahead for Growing Communities' paragraph, second sentence. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

• My priorities are safe and supported schools, proactive support and earlier intervention, stronger communication with families and responsible decision-making.

  Earlier intervention is a must. We can’t wait until a child is in crisis before asking what they need.

  When it comes to school safety, a child’s need for support and another child’s right to a safe learning environment should not be competing priorities. We have to be able to do both.

  We need to identify concerns earlier and prevent children from falling through the cracks.

  Trustees are stewards of public resources, and students should remain at the heart of decisions about how those resources are used.

  I also want to listen to educators and school staff. Parents and educators aren’t on opposite sides.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Barrie trustee candidate hopes to 'turn concerns into action', September 6, 2026 (paragraph 8; paragraph 9, first two sentences; paragraph 10; paragraph 9, third sentence; paragraph 11, second sentence; paragraph 7, first two sentences). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Simcoe County District School Board — Barrie Wards 7, 8, 9, 10

Sean Fitzgerald

• Ensuring every school is a secure, welcoming environment where students can focus on learning without fear. I advocate for safety protocols and enforceable policies against bullying.

  Source: www.seanfitzgeraldcampaign.net, Home page, under "Key Campaign Priorities", "Safety and Well-Being". Page. Undated; archived September 10, 2026. Official site

• We must protect the integrity of local decision-making. As your trustee, I will be vigilant in advocating for bylaws that strictly monitor trustee spending.

  Source: www.seanfitzgeraldcampaign.net, Financial Responsibility page, paragraph 4, first two sentences. Page. Undated; archived September 10, 2026. Official site

Denise Ketching

• 'I believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, safe and valued at school,' says Denise Ketching, public school board candidate in wards 7, 8, 9 and 10

  I want to advocate for earlier identification and support for students who need additional help, including those with learning differences, while making sure vulnerable children are not overlooked.

  Schools should also be safe and respectful places, where bullying, violence, drugs, vaping and harassment are taken seriously, and where every child feels welcome and accepted.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Barrie trustee candidate looks to bring 'open perspective' to the job, August 26, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived); paragraph 7, second sentence; paragraph 9). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

No published statement on this issue located for 3 candidates. No campaign website on the City's list: Kevin Berry, Darren Steeves, Chaudhry Farooq Haider Virk. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting any of them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.

Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board — Barrie Wards 1, 2, 3, 5

Justin Heran

• For this election, I am running to offer a fresh perspective at the board table in a changing time where Catholic education requires strong advocacy, diverse ideas and protecting essential programs. This can all be accomplished by supporting all school staff and students, prioritizing fiscal responsibility, instilling equity and inclusion, and cultivating community collaboration.

  Student success and learning is achieved when opportunities are readily available, schools are equipped to meet the challenges and demands, and when schools are safe and welcoming to all.

  My goal is to consistently review, revise and report on all progress as I collaborate with the other seven trustees, two student trustees, board members, union reps and community partners.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Former trustee hopes to bring 'fresh perspective' to board table, September 1, 2026 (paragraph 8; paragraph 9, first sentence; paragraph 11). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Susan van Amelsvoort

• Trustees are tasked to protect the constitutional right to Catholic Education, promote the Gospel values and preserve funding for future generations. To do this, trustees must work collaboratively with conviction, strength and humility.

  Catholic education is an important part of the Church’s mission, rooted in the teachings of Christ and the Gospel. I believe our schools should nurture a strong Catholic identity and foster faith, compassion, service, humility, and love of neighbour in all that we do.

  Every student has unique gifts and potential. I will support responsible decisions, meaningful opportunities, and strong programs that help students grow academically, personally, and spiritually while preparing confidently for the future.

  Source: vanam4trustee.ca, Home page, under 'A Call to Serve'; Home page, under 'Rooted in Faith'; Home page, under 'Every child thrives'. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board — Barrie Wards 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Rob Chiaramida

• 'I have proven to be responsible in fiscal management and will ensure taxpayer dollars are allocated appropriately,' says Rob Chiaramida

  I am running for Catholic school board trustee because I believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe, equitable, inclusive, faith-filled and forward-thinking environment.

  I am committed to representing all stakeholders to ensure students have access to the resources, opportunities and supportive learning environments they need to thrive and reach their full potential.

  I understand the importance of schools that provide a thriving environment with dedicated educators and a school board that listens, supports and enriches the families it serves.

  I am familiar with the current SMCDSB values and strategic plans. It is my goal to create effective collaboration to ensure these are met and evaluated accordingly.

  To serve as trustee would be both an honour and a privilege – one I would embrace with pride, purpose and a steadfast commitment to putting the needs of our students and families at the heart of every decision.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Catholic trustee candidate says he's 'mastered' building budgets, September 3, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived); paragraph 8; paragraph 11, second sentence; paragraph 3; paragraph 10; paragraph 12). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

Maria Hardie

• Catholic education is a gift in our province, and protecting our denominational rights is essential to ensuring that gift continues for future generations.

  Collaboration is essential to strong Catholic education, and I will continue to work closely with those who share a commitment to nurturing the whole child.

  Student well‑being and student success are also central to my work. Our children deserve safe, supportive learning environments where they can thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

  Source: hardie4trustee.ca, Home page, under 'WhY Choose Me', 'Funding Preservation'; Home page, under 'WhY Choose Me', 'Working Together', second sentence; Home page, under 'WhY Choose Me', 'Continuous Learning'. Page. Undated; archived October 7, 2026. Official site

• 'I believe our schools must remain places where students feel the faith,’ says Maria Hardie, who's running for Catholic board position in Barrie wards 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Increased ministry centralization a 'pressing' issue for trustee candidate, August 28, 2026 (Feed summary (article page not archived)). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

• Any time the future of an elected governance structure is publicly questioned, people naturally wonder what it could mean for local representation and accountability

  We bring forward community concerns, advocate for equity and ensure decisions reflect the unique needs of each area rather than a centralized, one‑size‑fits‑all approach.

  Hardie says trustees are chosen by their communities to reflect local priorities and ensure responsible stewardship, as well as uphold the mission and identity of their school systems.

  At the local level, removing or diminishing the trustee system would have real consequences, Hardie added.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Local accountability top of mind for Barrie trustee amid electoral 'uncertainty', March 16, 2026 (paragraph 4, quoted words after “Any time”; paragraph 13, second quoted sentence beginning "We bring forward"; paragraph 9, sentence beginning "Hardie says"; paragraph 12, sentence beginning "At the local level"). Read September 10, 2026. Media coverage

Conseil scolaire Viamonde

Rachael Golem

• Screen use in classes must be a deliberate choice, not a default. Like countless parents, I have concerns about children being addicted to screens from an early age.

  If a teacher has a split class and multiple individualized education programs to accommodate without support, the situation is unsustainable, leaving teachers at risk of burnout. We need to optimize structures to place educational assistants exactly where daily complexity demands it most.

  We need to optimize school bus routes to ensure reasonable commutes and actively develop local French-language programming to break regional isolation and stabilize enrolment.

  We should use digital tools where they are necessary, while preserving written work on paper to strengthen focus and memory.

  Every student deserves a balanced learning environment, while ensuring vital support for teachers.

  Our schools thrive thanks to families in every corner of our region, yet many of our children spend two to three hours a day on a bus.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Systemic change won't come at parent council, says Viamonde candidate, September 21, 2026 (paragraph 8, second and third sentences; paragraph 9, last two sentences; paragraph 10, last sentence; paragraph 8, last sentence, counting the editor's note; paragraph 9, second sentence, counting the editor's note; paragraph 10, second sentence, counting the editor's note). Read October 7, 2026. Media coverage

• Mon objectif est de veiller à ce que les outils numériques soient utilisés là où ils enrichissent l’apprentissage et préparent nos enfants aux compétences de demain, tout en préservant la place essentielle du travail écrit sur papier pour fixer la concentration et la mémoire.

  Mon objectif est d’optimiser nos structures de soutien pour affecter les aides-enseignants (EAs) là où la complexité quotidienne du terrain l’exige, garantissant ainsi un cadre solide et gérable pour tous.

  Cette démarche privilégie l’optimisation des circuits d’autobus pour garantir des trajets raisonnables, ainsi que le développement d’activités locales en français pour briser l’isolement.

  Source: rachaelgolem.ca, Home page (Accueil), 'Mes Priorités', item 1 'Un usage raisonné des écrans', second paragraph; Home page (Accueil), 'Mes Priorités', item 2 'Un soutien accru en classe', second paragraph, last sentence; Home page (Accueil), 'Mes Priorités', item 3 'Une équité régionale', second paragraph, first sentence. Page. Undated; archived September 10, 2026. Official site

Eric Lapointe

• I'm committed to putting students and families first and ensuring a strong, inclusive and successful French language education system.

  During my time on the board, I've also had the privilege of serving on the special needs committee, giving me valuable insight into supporting every student and ensuring they have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Firefighter seeking re-election as trustee on Viamonde board, September 19, 2026 (paragraph 6; paragraph 5). Read October 7, 2026. Media coverage

• My kids are still in that board and I just want to be involved, to improve things for the kids

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, Some familiar faces have already joined the race in city election, May 1, 2026 (paragraph 18 (counting from 'And so it begins.'), first quotation). Read October 15, 2026. Media coverage

Conseil scolaire catholique MonAvenir

Donald Blais

• Fournir tous les outils et la formation nécessaires aux membres du personnel pour maintenir un climat sécuritaire dans nos écoles. Créer un sentiment d’appartenance, autant pour les familles, les enfants et les membres du personnel, quels que soient leurs origines, leurs croyances ou leurs orientations.

  Minimiser les débats à huis clos et maximiser les débats publics.

  Supporter le Comité de l’enfance en difficulté et leur assurer le budget nécessaire pour un fonctionnement efficace.

  Source: votedonaldblais.ca, Home page, under 'Une école sécuritaire'; Home page, under 'Transparence'; Home page, under 'L’enfance en difficulté'. Page. Undated; archived September 11, 2026. Official site

• Priorities include a safe school: Provide all the necessary tools and training to staff members to maintain a safe environment in our schools. Create a sense of belonging for families, children and staff members, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs or orientations.

  Transparency: Minimize closed-door discussions and maximize public debates.

  Childhood in difficulty: Support the committee for children in difficulty and provide them with the necessary budget for effective operation.

  Source: As quoted in BarrieToday, MonAvenir candidate running on experience, established connections, August 29, 2026 (paragraph 7; paragraph 8; paragraph 10). Read September 11, 2026. Media coverage

No published statement on this issue located for one candidate. No campaign website on the City's list: Innocent LeGrand. Indexed news coverage checked October 7, 2026: none quoting them on this issue. Social media posts not yet checked.