Leah Maier is a candidate running to represent Subdivision 7—Esterhazy, Stockholm, and surrounding areas in the upcoming Good Spirit School Division (GSSD) elections. With a diverse background in healthcare and education, Maier brings a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities within the school system. Passionate about student support, classroom dynamics, and mental health, she aims to foster meaningful change if elected. Advance polls began on October 29, 2024, and the final election date is set for November 13, 2024.
Can you share your background in education and what experiences have shaped your approach?
So, here’s a neat little story I’d like to share. When I was a young girl, likely in grade 4 or 5, I remember playing “school” with my friends and wanting so badly to be a teacher. I even played it with my grandparents, parents, and toys at home. The thrill of teaching and having a classroom filled with fun and learning was so exciting for me!
Even though I went into the healthcare field after grade 12, I still had a passion for helping people, though it wasn’t focused on youth at that time. The reward and fulfilment were still there. I was passionate about my job! I worked for 11 years in healthcare before transitioning to an elementary school as an Education Assistant.
My background in education was brief but an experience of a lifetime. I worked at P.J. Gillen Elementary School for roughly four years. I remember feeling a little nervous during my first week because it was a whole new environment, and learning a new job can be somewhat intimidating. However, I can assure all the readers out there that walking those halls, the kids and teachers made my transition as an Education Assistant easy.
Within just a few weeks, the kids and I got to know each other well, and not a moment passed without kids telling me stories, giving me high fives in the halls, playing games at recess, and having fun while learning. I often heard them yell down the hallways, “Ms. Maier is our favourite teacher!” My dream had come true. Working with students was so rewarding; I was excited to go to work each day to see all the kids.
Don’t get me wrong, there were definitely challenging times, but the reward came when you overcame those challenges. The little moments, like when a child confided in me and asked for help, were some of the best experiences that shaped my approach to becoming an Education Assistant. I was learning from the kids; little did they know they were some of the best teachers out there.
What are your thoughts on the current education budget (teacher and educational assistant positions or other items)?
My thoughts on the current education budget for teachers and education assistants need to be addressed. Currently, classroom sizes are increasing yearly and becoming more diverse, which is great; however, this also brings extra needs which require extra support.
Teachers are required not only to teach lessons but also to incorporate English language instruction into their lesson plans. Many classrooms are seeing an influx of higher-needs students who are not necessarily receiving the proper support, leading to teachers working above and beyond, which results in burnout.
Teachers need support from education assistants in almost every classroom. In some schools, education assistants are also working in overdrive to support a number of students, but not all that require it. Many teachers express that their requests for extra help or smaller classrooms are not being heard, jeopardizing students’ education and learning abilities.
Furthermore, teachers’ hours and positions are continually being cut, impacting students, teachers, and education assistants. Parental involvement in schools is essential. I encourage parents to engage in their child’s learning by reaching out to their teachers to collaborate on ways to ensure that students are learning what they need.
When a team is at its maximum capacity, students thrive; when it is not, students suffer as a consequence. So, my question is: Whose needs are we meeting here, when students should come first?
What strategies do you believe the school board can implement to support student mental health effectively?
There are several effective ways the board can support students’ mental health. Education on mental health is crucial and can be integrated into health education or provided additionally for all students or those seeking extra information.
Students’ knowledge and understanding of mental health are extremely important, as this awareness helps them recognize what they are experiencing if they are suffering from illness, stress, trauma, etc. It is essential for teachers, education assistants, and principals to diligently check in on students, ensuring they are okay and prioritizing follow-ups with those who may not be at their best.
Offering access to a trained professional whom students can approach when they need to be heard is vital. Students should have access to someone they trust and who acknowledges their feelings. Staff should encourage students to communicate openly with trusted individuals, whether in school, at home, or in the community. They need to feel valued and cared for.
Providing opportunities for confidential self-check-ins between students and teachers or principals can be an effective way to address students’ needs and facilitate immediate support. Additionally, students should have a list of community resources for seeking further assistance if needed.
Parental involvement is also important, as it helps parents learn strategies and obtain the resources necessary to support their children at home. Staff should stay updated on current training available in their area to create a more supportive and safer environment for the students they serve daily. The board can oversee and ensure that these criteria are met by conducting check-ins, connecting with parents and students, or distributing surveys to confirm that mental health is being acknowledged and taken seriously.
What are the core pillars of your educational philosophy, and how do you plan to bring meaningful change or continuation to the current system?
In my opinion, the core pillars of educational philosophy include traditional classrooms that focus on fundamental subjects such as math, science, history, and English. These subjects provide students with the core knowledge and skills necessary for success.
However, students also need to learn real-world lessons, such as banking, doing taxes, growing a garden, and changing a tire—simple life skills that many individuals in society lack. Students should be given the opportunity to express their logical and critical thinking, which fosters their problem-solving abilities. Their opinions deserve to be heard and respected.
Moreover, students need opportunities for real-world problem solving, which can be achieved through active learning projects that emphasize collaboration and critical thinking. Frequent self-reflection and goal setting are also essential, as they promote individual choice and self-direction, helping students understand the importance of personal growth.
Additionally, students require social interaction and cultural learning, especially in our diverse population.
How can parents and students best reach you, and what support can they expect from you in addressing their concerns?
Parents and students can reach me via phone, text, email, or in person. I strongly encourage you to contact me as soon as any concerns—big or small—arise, as I want to understand exactly what is happening so that I can be a voice and advocate for you and your child.
I promise to investigate your concerns and do my very best to provide answers, ensuring that your child’s experience in school is the best it can be. These years are crucial, and I want to see every child succeed in school so they can grow into successful adults in the future.
Conclusion
Leah Maier brings both passion and experience to her candidacy, shaped by her work in healthcare and education. She is committed to advocating for smaller class sizes, better mental health support, and collaborative efforts between parents, students, and educators. Maier believes that by fostering a strong, well-supported school environment, students can thrive and achieve their full potential. If elected, she looks forward to being a voice for the community and ensuring that every student’s needs come first.