February 5th, 2020
On a brisk February morning, public and private sector representatives from across Waterloo Region came together at the Royal Canadian Legion in Elmira for a provincial budget consultation hosted by The Honourable Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance.
Vice-Chair Joanne Weston of the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) was on hand to advocate for our students and support increased investment in public education.
“Public education is the greatest lever of positive social change, and as such is the most significant investment your government could consider,” said Weston.
Weston highlighted the value of investing in public education in Ontario, and the positive financial and societal gains that come as a result.
“The Conference Board of Canada reported last year that each dollar invested in public education generates $1.30 in total economic impacts to Ontario,” said Weston. “At the same time, the inverse holds true for each dollar taken from the system.”
For Weston, it was especially important to make the most of this opportunity, as the benefits of a strong public education system are diverse, and touch on nearly every aspect of life in Waterloo Region.
“All Ontarians benefit from effective public schools. And we are all impacted when funding and support are reduced, including the social and economic costs of unemployment, rising crime and health costs for years to come.”
Reflecting on the opportunity to represent the students, staff and families of the WRDSB, Weston was grateful for the chance to be heard by representatives of the provincial government.
“Speaking on behalf of our constituents, and giving a voice to our students, staff and families is what being a Trustee is all about,” said Weston. “It was an honour to represent the WRDSB and to help support public education.”
About Our Trustees
The Board’s eleven-person elected board of trustees is responsible for oversight of the budget and the Director of Education, as well as policies and bylaws governing the Board’s operations. The board of trustees also ensures that the quality of education in Waterloo Region is maintained, and the educational goals and needs of all students are met.
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