Student Trustee Elections: Your Time to Learn, Lead and Inspire

Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025

Student Trustees

Above: Grand Erie's 2024-25 student trustees, left to right, Aidyn Hill, Olivia Prince and Caitlyn Shields

Student trustee elections are right around the corner, inviting passionate individuals to step up and make a difference in their school communities. 

"Running for student trustee is one of the best decisions I have ever made, and if you're considering running, my advice is to be authentically yourself," said Caitlyn Shields, current student trustee representing her peers from secondary schools in the north region of Grand Erie. "We have so much diversity within our board, and everyone has the ability to make a difference — being a student trustee amplifies this ability."

Student trustees play a vital role in shaping policies that affect student life, from educational resources to mental health initiatives. With the power to influence decision-making at the school board level, student trustees can turn students' concerns and ideas into actionable solutions.

"You learn how to engage with all staff and students, and you build a deep understanding of the environment around you while fostering strong social connections," said Aidyn Hill, student trustee representing Indigenous students across Grand Erie. "Before running for this role, it's good to understand the time commitment you're making; when you choose to go the extra mile, it further elevates your voice, shows others you're passionate about what you do, and brings more perspectives to the board, which is your key role as student trustee." 

If you’re interested in submitting an application to run for the position of student trustee, the first step is to apply in writing to your school principal by Friday, January 17. Successful applicants will then attend the Student Election meeting on February 27. The student trustee term runs from August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026.

"Having the opportunity to meet and work closely with student trustees from other boards and school administrators has been an incredible experience, as you learn to collaborate and navigate a variety of different opinions to come to a common goal," said Olivia Prince, student trustee representing Grand Erie students in the south region of the board. "My time as a student trustee has had a profound impact on my future goals, having taught me the value of representing and advocating for others, which has only fueled my passion for leadership."

Service as a student trustee may be eligible for either a co-op credit or community service hours, with the approval of the student trustee’s principal and co-op teacher. Students who have questions about the process or the responsibilities entailed in the position are encouraged to ask their principal. The voice and advocacy of student trustees helps Grand Erie reach its strategic goals of supporting equitable, inclusive and responsive environments for every learner.

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