The following was provided to Saugeen Shores Hub by Yvonne Cameron.

I am running for Saugeen Shores and Arran-Elderslie School Board Trustee. I am married and have two children. I have lived in the Grey Bruce area for most of my life, currently residing in Chesley. I have a college degree in Business Finance, from Georgian College, and have worked in finance, management, and administration for the past 30 plus years.

Over the years, I have worked in municipal government, worked as an operations manager for a multi-franchise organization, worked in retail and as a server/waitress. Currently I work as an office coordinator in the town of Wiarton with Taylor & Co. Real Estate. I have held volunteer positions working with children within my local church community as Sunday school teacher, youth leader and young adult leader. I have taken online courses and attended many seminars to support my church roles and hope my experiences will lend to School board Trustee, should I be elected.

I stand for:

• A system that promotes ethics and morals - kindness, self-compassion, integrity, responsibility, mutual respect, honesty, flexibility, and fairness are key values in every culture.
• That all children deserve the same education, no matter their station in life.
• Parents have the right to choose for their children, parents should take a stand for their children. “Parents are first educators and mentors."
• Children’s right to a valid education free from propaganda.
• A system that promotes a child’s individuality - assist them in setting goals and encourage their dreams for the future, allow for creative thinking and celebrate their originality.
• Teachers are great influencers; they need to refrain from teachings that coerce children in one direction over another; true equality should prevail not dominate.

Taking a stand is not always easy but parents should have the right to make decisions for their children and have those choices defended by our Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Every Canadian citizen is entitled to the same freedoms and should be equally treated. School boards and/or teachers should consider all aspects of the education act along with the Charter and uphold children's rights. I believe a person should stand by their word; truth, integrity, and wisdom are virtues we all should strive for in everyday life. We should lead by example, not with tyranny or oppression. Effective leaders are honest, confident, full of compassion, intelligent and of course, have a humorous side.

I will stand for truth above all; I will be a strong voice to help grow our education system; for a system that puts kids first and provides every individual with equal consideration. I will not make impulsive decisions, and I will “take action” for success. I will dedicate my time and service to you to uphold our values and rights.

Your vote will be your voice at the board so please vote!

I can be reached at YvonneCameron_BWDSB_Candidate@protonmail.com.