Municipal elections are October 26 in Ontario. To help voters make an informed decision here in Cornwall, the editorial board of The Seeker has put together 10 questions for candidates seeking to be elected as School Board Trustee. To ensure fairness, the same questions were sent to every candidate. We sent a total of 10 and they had the option to answer all of them, or pick a minimum of 5. Their answers will be published in their entirety, in the order they are received. We will not edit, correct or modify any responses.
These are Donna Nielsen’s Answers. She is running for trustee for CDSBEO.
1. Who are you, and what experience or perspective would you bring to the school board if elected?
My name is Donna Nielsen and I am seeking reelection as English Catholic School Trustee for Cornwall and the County of Glengarry. I have been married for 41 years. We have 2 adult children, a son in law and are blessed with 4 grandsons.
For as long as I can remember, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. My career spanned over 40 years with 18 years + with the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario; 5 school boards, positions from junior kindergarten to grade 12, and years as Special Education Resource teacher in diversified capacities. In 2002, I began my first principalship. I had the honour of serving 3 outstanding CDSBEO schools until my retirement in 2016. I enjoyed this leadership opportunity immensely!
It was a natural journey in Catholic education to embrace the position of English Catholic School Trustee.
I am a strong supporter of Catholic education. As English Catholic School Trustee, I embrace every opportunity to support and advocate for students, families and staff at masses, prayer services and celebrations. My extensive experiences in Catholic education certainly help to inform insightful dialogue and collaboration around the board table as well meaningful discussions with all constituents.
2. What do you believe is the biggest issue facing students and families in Cornwall and the surrounding area, and what would you do about it?
It is essential to have open lines of communication with parents and caregivers. As English Catholic Trustee, I will be the voice for parents and students. I am committed to listen and seek clarification. The Trustee’s next step is to bring the concern/issue in its entirety to the Superintendent of Education to which it applies. In my experience all cases have been resolved collaboratively and respectfully in a timely manner and always in the best interest of everyone involved. Bill 101 has brought several changes to the role and responsibilities of Trustees and to the duties assigned to School Boards across Ontario.
Every new school year brings different issues and challenges. I have observed that bussing is the greatest concern. (please see answer 6) It must be noted that students are transitioning into new grades with different teachers, routines and expectations. It is an exciting time but a time when some students might require a little more attention and support. I am here to support and advocate for them.
3. What can the school board do to improve student achievement, particularly for students who are struggling in reading, writing and mathematics?
I pledge to promote the best education for all students; heart, mind, body and soul. As English Catholic School Trustee I will continue to support and attend the many events that celebrate student achievement at in CDSBEO; Catholic Education Week activities, commemorative events, OYAP events, student led seminars, science fairs, art exhibits, open houses, performances, plays, sporting events and many more. Visibility is pivotal and shows unwavering support and pride for students and our schools. Recently, students who attended the Summer Learning Program were celebrated for their achievements! Bravo!! Please visit cdsbeo.on.ca for programming information.
4. How should the board address staffing challenges, including recruiting and retaining teachers, educational assistants and other support staff?
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5. What should the board do to improve support for students with special education needs and ensure families can access the services their children require?
As English Catholic School Trustee I am and will continue to be committed to supporting students with special needs. I am honored to chair the Special Education Advisory Committee. SEAC partners with community agencies and support groups in the community that serve to further support the complex and specific needs of students. SEAC meeting minutes are shared at Catholic School Council meetings.
Communication between home, school and agency(s) is essential for ensuring that a child’s needs are met efficiently and effectively. The parent is the greatest advocate for his/her child. As English Catholic School Trustee, I am available to assist parents/caregivers with having their concerns addressed and with accessing the support required.
Please visit cdsbeo.on.ca for CDSBEO Special Education information.
6. School transportation is facing financial pressures and potential changes. What would you do to ensure Cornwall-area students have reliable transportation without putting an unreasonable burden on families?
The provincial funding formula updates and standardizations have caused route and walk-to-stop adjustments across regions of eastern Ontario. Every child’s safety is of utmost importance at CDSBEO. The CDSBEO works very closely with the Student Transportation of Eastern Ontario. Two English Catholic School Trustees sit on the STEO Board and bring parent concerns directly to the table. As English School Catholic Trustee, I take parent/caregiver feedback and ensure it is brought forward through the appropriate Board channels and shared with STEO. If a family requires additional consideration due to medical, safety, or exceptional circumstances the family may submit a request through STEO’s Ride Request. Seeing students walking to and from schools laughing and chatting with their friends reminds me of my walks to and from school many, many years ago. This brings a smile to my face. Observation indicates that many students have adjusted and are enjoying the camaraderie, exercise and fresh air.
7. How should the board balance the needs of Cornwall’s urban schools with those of smaller and rural schools in the surrounding communities when making decisions about funding, programs and possible school closures or consolidations?
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8. What is your position on cellphone use and other technology in schools, and where should the board draw the line?
At the elementary and secondary levels, cell phones should be stored out of view and powered off use during instructional hours. There could be exceptions that are approved by the teacher/principal. (instructional use, health or medical purposes, support special educational needs) I support that cell phones should be powered all off and out of view for the whole instructional day for elementary students. This encourages outdoor play and socialization. There could be exceptions, especially for health or medical purposes. (Directional Policy 1000 Positive Communication)
9. What is your position on AI use, and where should the board draw the line?
Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. It is part of our daily lives young and old alike. AI can be a very good tool if used responsibly and ethically. I will continue to expand my understanding and use of AI, and to support the digital citizen instruction that the CDSBEO provides annually for every student. If a concern arises, I will bring it to the attention of the Board. (Directional Policy 1000 Positive Communication)
10. If elected, what is the first issue you would bring to the board table on behalf of Cornwall-area students and families, and what specific action would you want the board to take?
Not Answered
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