Name and pronouns?
Bill Brassington (he/him)
Tell us about yourself: (max. 100 words)
I am the proud parent of two Burnaby students and for the past 26 years I have lived and volunteered in our community. I am proud of my involvement as the PAC chairperson for my children’s school, as a member of the City of Burnaby environment committee, and a coach for Hastings Little League and Burnaby Minor Softball.
I am a first term trustee and the current vice-chairperson of the Burnaby Board of Education.
During my term, I’ve sat on Burnaby's healthier community partnership, the district community school advisory committee, and the City of Burnaby parks, recreation and culture commission.
Why are you running for school board? (max. 50 words)
I am running to continue advocating for a fully funded education system in Burnaby. I believe in a strong public education system and the power of schools to shape Burnaby. I believe trustees have a duty to ensure every Burnaby student feels empowered, cared for and included in their community.
What do you think the current school board has done well? Where has it missed the mark? (max. 50 words)
We developed a strategic plan that puts Burnaby students first. We also re-designed the governance model to be more inclusive of parents, students, teachers and staff so that everyone has input prior the decisions being made. Our board has done a great job with the resources provided.
What are the top three issues facing the next school board? (max. 50 words)
The top three issues facing the next school board are action on anti-racism, creating the long-range facility plan and continuing to expand childcare.
How do you plan to address those issues? (max. 150 words)
The school board's work on anti-racism began two years ago and focused on community engagement. A survey, with 11,000 written submissions, was followed by extensive community engagement. The new board will have a report with suggested action items. I commit to action that makes all Burnaby students and staff feel safe and included.
Burnaby is growing rapidly, and we need to create more classroom spaces. The long-range facility plan will be the new board’s road map for the next decade. Using the plan, I will work to ensure the provincial government fully funds the building of Burnaby schools for future growth.
In my first term, I put forward a motion to the board, and we created 773 new childcare spaces in Burnaby schools. In my next term, I will be a voice for childcare, and I will work with Burnaby’s councilors and our MLAs to expand childcare in Burnaby schools.
And just for fun: If you got to spend one full day in school again, what grade would you return to and why? (max. 25 words)
I’d return to the day I graduated Grade 12 to fully enjoy all I accomplished, celebrate my friendships and be excited for what was next.
Where can voters find out more about you? (e.g. social media, website)
https://www.burnaby-citizens.ca/
