A relative newcomer to the Cariboo, Bev Goldstone is seeking a seat on the School District 27 board because she has always had an interest in the education system and in particular the outcomes for special needs students.
Goldstone and her life partner, Nancy, and their daughter moved to 150 Mile House from the Lower Mainland in January of 2010.
Goldstone is in the running for the Zone 4 seat which includes parts of 150 Mile House, Likely, Horsefly and Big Lake.
Goldstone worked as a letter carrier for Canada Post for 36 years, retiring this past summer.
“I have always been an advocate within our union as a shop steward to president of our local here in Williams Lake,” Goldstone says.
“Being an advocate is a passion of mine especially advocating for children with special needs.”
She has also volunteered in the Lower Mainland on the Kwantlen Nation’s Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement.
“My family has also stood on picket lines alongside teachers and parents when funding to our most vulnerable students was cut,” Goldstone.
“Now that I am retired I feel I have the time to spend listening to parents, students and teachers needs to try to make this one of the best districts there is.
“I believe the job of trustee isn’t as much about making policy as it is about advocating for our schools needs.”
“I don’t begin to believe I have all the answers or know all the problems. What I do know is I am committed to listening to concerns and doing the best I can for everyone involved.”
Goldstone says she believes the dialogue on bullying should begin in Kindergarten.
“I believe that as a board our job is to be an advocate for the students, parents and staff,” Goldstone says.
“Our jobs are to listen to the people in the classrooms and find out how best to help them.”