With a record 15 candidates on the ballot, three student trustees for 2024-25 were elected to the Grand Erie District School Board.
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Representing student interest for the coming school year are Aidyn Hill of Hagersville Secondary School, Olivia Prince of Cayuga Secondary School, and Caitlyn Shields of Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School.
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“Humility is the basis for my listening and understanding,” said Hill in his student trustee application. “It’s not about my voice, but Indigenous students as a whole.
A Grade 12 student in the New Start program at Hagersville Secondary, Hill was elected though a process of consensus, which involved members of the United Indigenous Student Council making the selection. This method of decision-making is rooted in traditional principles and governance structures shaped by the values and experiences of the group members to reach collective agreement.
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Representing the northern region of Grand Erie, Shields, a Grade 12 student at Pauline Johnson, said she feels “very strongly about creating a diverse, inclusive and safe environment in Grand Erie.”
“As student trustee, I will devote my time to ensuring that the opinions of students from all different groups and cohorts will have their opinions listened to and considered.”
Shields’s secondary school experience demonstrates progressive leadership. She has represented her fellow PJ learners on student council since Grade 9, and volunteered with a number of events and initiatives.
Shields was joined by four other experienced student leaders presenting to their peers for the opportunity to serve as student trustee next year.
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“I have many ideas I’d love to explore,” said Prince, a Grade 12 student at Cayuga Secondary, who cited improved mental health resources and opening additional pathways for students to find leadership opportunities among her priorities.
“I’ve been on student council the previous four years and have spent this time committed to celebrating and developing an inclusive and connected culture. I plan on continuing this next year.”
Prince was in a full race with eight students running to represent the southern region of Grand Erie.
The newly elected student trustees will begin their terms on Aug. 1.
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