Surrey is one of the fastest-growing communities in British Columbia, and our school infrastructure must keep pace with that growth. Too many families are seeing the effects of overcrowding through packed schools, portables and increasing pressure on classrooms and shared spaces.

As a School Trustee, I will advocate strongly for provincial funding and timely construction of new schools and classroom additions in the communities experiencing the greatest capacity pressures.

I also believe families deserve greater transparency. Parents should be able to clearly understand where overcrowding is occurring, what projects are being requested, which projects have received provincial approval and when additional student spaces are expected to become available.

A trustee cannot build a school alone, but the Board of Education has an important responsibility to identify needs, establish capital priorities and consistently advocate to the provincial government for the funding Surrey requires.

As Surrey continues to grow, school planning must also look ahead rather than simply react after schools become overcrowded. I will support responsible long-term planning based on enrolment projections, housing growth and the needs of individual communities.

Our children deserve learning environments that support their education, safety and well-being. Providing adequate school space must remain a priority as Surrey grows.