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Election 2018: Q&A with Elmer Rorstad

Candidate for Revelstoke school board
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Current job/career: Parent/Owner of Free Spirit Sports/School Trustee

Why do you live in Revelstoke?

I fell in love with Revelstoke forty years ago when I left Vancouver to pursue my teaching career. The natural beauty and friendly locals were contagious and I never left Revelstoke. Over the years Revelstoke has evolved into a world class four seasons destination and I have been fortunate to be part of the transition. Now I am raising a young family and the outdoor opportunities, family facilities and school system available in Revelstoke are second to none. The Revelstoke area is a great place to raise children!

Why are you running to be a SD19 board trustee?

It is my wish to continue to have a positive impact on education in Revelstoke. My experience of serving as a school trustee for seven years will be an asset to the Board. I am a firm believer in smaller class sizes, providing additional educational aides when necessary and supporting our teaching staff in obtaining professional development. Also I have been a proud lifelong supporter of the public school system in British Columbia. I want the students of Revelstoke to obtain a relevant, comprehensive education of the highest quality.

Why do you think you are qualified for the job?

During my forty years in Revelstoke I have been a teacher, volunteer, coach, business owner, trustee and parent. I believe all these experiences qualify myself for the position of school trustee. The twenty years I taught provide myself with the empathy and insight of what teaching entails. Owning a business has given me with the knowledge of analyzing and understanding financial statements and budgets. Seven years as a school trustee gives me the background in knowing what are the important issues facing the Revelstoke school district. Being a parent has been an eye opening experience and given me the motivation to provide the best possible education to the students of Revelstoke.

What issues would you want addressed if you were elected?

Revelstoke is fortunate to have a dedicated and caring teaching staff. I feel it is important to continue providing the resources necessary to implement curriculum and technology for a changing classroom. The Revelstoke school district is also changing and a detailed strategic multiyear plan is needed to prepare for increasing enrollment. I would like to assist the school district as a trustee in meeting these challenges!