First-time candidate Jake Skakun seeks school board seat

Skakun is currently studying social work and has experience volunteering and participating in community outreach programs. He says those experiences have helped shape his understanding of the challenges facing local families and students.

One of his biggest priorities is opposition to the recently approved 28 per cent trustee pay increase, which would take effect following the election.

Skakun believes available funding should be directed toward classrooms before administrative costs.

“The money should definitely go to classrooms first, more than anything,” he said.

He argues schools need additional educational assistants and more support for students with special needs. Skakun says classrooms are becoming increasingly crowded and resources are stretched thin.

“We need more educational assistants in each classroom,” he said. “The classrooms are packed, and there needs to be more support available for students.”

Another key part of Skakun’s platform is expanding career pathway and dual-credit programs for students. He would like to see career exploration begin earlier in a student’s education, rather than primarily in Grades 11 and 12.

Pointing to models used elsewhere in Canada, Skakun said introducing career planning opportunities in Grades 9 and 10 would help students better prepare for life after graduation.

“If I could get one thing accomplished, it would be expanding those opportunities,” he said. “A lot of kids leave school still unsure of what they want to do.”

Skakun says voters can expect a hardworking, empathetic candidate focused on helping students succeed and ensuring education dollars are spent where they matter most: in the classroom.

by Greg Fry

First-time candidate Jake Skakun seeks school board seat

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