Mary P Brooke has been closely following the news and developments of the SD62 School District at the board and committee level since 2014, attending most of the meetings and writing articles about SD62 as a journalist working in the west shore.

As parent, PAC rep or journalist, over the years Mary Brooke has visited most of the SD62 schools in Langford, Colwood and Sooke, including the new ones under construction. She has come to know SD62 administration and trustees, many principals and teachers, PAC reps and students.

While also running her business, Mary raised her son and three daughters who are now leading successful adult lives. During their K-12 years they attended schools in SD61, SD62 and SD72.

SD62 is guided by their 2021-2025 Strategic Plan goals for Learning, Engagement and Growth but from there trustees make many policy decisions.  School district trustees are expected to lead from within. Most of the challenges in SD62 are related to the many demands that emerge from rapid facility growth (new schools) that are needed in the fast-growing west shore. 

Ms Brooke is an independent thinker who — as an elected trustee — will aim to watch for the rights of parents and well-being of students and families. She would bring insightful level-headed analysis to board-level decision-making, but always being attentive to the whole view... speaking up for parents and student well-being, including impacts of school district decisions on the wider community of the west shore region.

COVID continues, which makes ventilation a priority in schools. Food security needs focused attention -- not just meal programs, but ensuring that every student is exposed to a range of curriculum that develops science knowledge, food growing skills, cooking and shopping skills, and an awareness of economic impacts on the larger food supply chain.

More bio: https://marypbrooke.ca/