Before the Ballot- School Trustee Edition with Amanda Fehrman, Candidate for Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board Trustee (Public) – Wards 11 and 12.

Enjoy this instalment of Before the Ballot- School Trustee Edition with Amanda Fehrman, Candidate for Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board Trustee (Public) – Wards 11 and 12.

Please tell our readers a little about yourself and what motivated you to seek election as a School Board Trustee.

My name is Amanda Fehrman, and I am honoured to serve as the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board Trustee for Wards 11 and 12. I have lived in our community for over 20 years and bring a unique perspective as a parent, hockey coach, IT professional, and long time education advocate.

Before being elected Trustee in 2022, I served as Chair of the HWDSB Parent Involvement Committee, where I worked alongside families, educators, and community partners to strengthen public education. I sought election because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, whether that path includes academics, athletics, the arts, robotics, or the skilled trades. I wanted to ensure that the voices of students, parents, and staff were heard at the board table and that decisions were made with a focus on student well being and long term success.

In your view, what are the three most important issues currently facing students, parents, educators, and the school board, and how would you help address them?

The first challenge is adequate and sustainable funding. School boards are expected to do more with less while managing rising costs and increasing student needs. I will continue to advocate to the provincial government for fair, predictable funding that allows us to maintain high quality programs, safe schools, and the supports students need to thrive.

The second issue is student well being and belonging. Students learn best when they feel safe, included, and supported. This means continuing to prioritize mental health supports, creating positive school climates, and ensuring that every student feels a sense of connection and belonging in their school community.

The third issue is preparing students for life after graduation. Students need access to diverse pathways, including university, college, apprenticeship, skilled trades, and the workforce. I have been a strong supporter of experiential learning, robotics, the arts, athletics, and skilled trades programming because these opportunities help students discover their strengths and build the skills needed for future success.

A trustee’s role is one of governance rather than day-to-day management. How do you see the relationship between trustees, board administration, and school principals?

Trustees set the strategic direction of the board, approve budgets, establish policies, and ensure accountability to the public. Board administration is responsible for implementing those policies and managing the day to day operations of the system, while principals provide leadership within schools and support students and staff directly.

I believe effective governance is built on respect, collaboration, and clearly defined roles. Trustees should listen to the community, ask thoughtful questions, and make decisions based on evidence and the best interests of students. Administration and principals bring professional expertise and operational knowledge that is essential to implementing the board’s goals. When each group understands and respects its role, we create a strong and effective public education system.

What changes or improvements, if any, would you like to see in the delivery of education within our local school system over the next four years?

Over the next four years, I would like to see a continued focus on improving student achievement while expanding opportunities that reflect the diverse interests and strengths of our students.

I also want to see stronger communication and engagement with families. Parents are key partners in education, and it is important that they feel informed, heard, and connected to their child’s school and the broader board.

Additionally, I would like to see continued investment in safe, welcoming learning environments and a focus on ensuring that resources are directed where they can have the greatest impact on student outcomes.

Why should voters place their trust in you? What qualities, experience, or perspective would you bring to the role of School Board Trustee that distinguish you from the other candidates?

I have a proven track record of showing up, listening, and advocating for our school communities. Over the past term, I have attended school events, graduations, student performances, athletic competitions, robotics competitions, and community activities because I believe it is important for a Trustee to be visible and connected to the people they serve.

I also strive to respond to everything when it is sent directly to me, even if I am cc’d you can be assured I am looking into the concern to ensure staff has followed up with you and your concerns are being addressed.

As Chair of the Program Committee for the past two years, I have worked on policies and initiatives that support student achievement and well being across the board. My background in information technology provides me with strong analytical and problem solving skills, while my experience as a coach has taught me the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and helping young people reach their full potential.

I bring a balanced approach to decision making one that values student success, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and meaningful community engagement. Most importantly, I care deeply about public education and the future of our community.

What would you like parents, students and the broader public to know about the role of a Trustee?

A Trustee’s role is to represent the interests of the community while making decisions that support the success of all students. Trustees are responsible for setting policy, approving budgets, hiring and evaluating the Director of Education, and ensuring that the board remains accountable and transparent.

Trustees do not manage the day to day operations of schools, but we play an important role in listening to concerns, helping families navigate the system, and bringing community perspectives to the board table. Effective Trustees are accessible, informed, and committed to working collaboratively to strengthen public education.

How can voters contact you and/or learn more about you?

I believe communication and accessibility are essential parts of being an effective Trustee. I encourage residents to reach out with questions, concerns, or ideas. I can be reached at amandafehrman2026@gmail.com

Or please visit my website amandafehrman.ca

Thank-you Amanda for engaging with Hamiltonians on The Hamiltonian!