Editor's note: BarrieToday has asked candidates for school board trustee in Barrie to provide a synopsis of why they are running for public office. The following is from Maria Hardie, who is running for Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) trustee in Barrie Wards 6-10. Municipal elections take place Oct. 24. For more election coverage, visit our 2022 municipal election page by clicking here, where you can find candidate profiles and other election news.
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My name is Maria Hardie and I'm running for re-election for the position of Catholic board trustee for Barrie Wards 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
In 1982, I moved to Barrie with my husband and two children. Both our children are graduates of the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB). I worked as an educational assistant in the system. Following that, and for the next many years, I worked as school office administrator retiring from St. Nicholas School.
As a family, we are active and involved in the parish life at St. John Vianney Church. My husband and I currently serve in various ministries.
In 2010, I was elected as a trustee for the SMCDSB representing Wards 6-10. Over these last 12 years, I have acted as chair of the board for three years and for four years as vice-chair, and also chair of the board policy committee. In addition, I currently serve on other general committees.
Trustees are elected by taxpayers to listen to the concerns and expectations of their constituents and to ensure their interests are heard at the board table. I have always worked diligently to be that representative voice of the families and staff in my wards.
I am an advocate for academic excellence, lifelong learning and the personal growth of our students and staff. I have and will continue to encourage the home-school-church tradition, as I believe these three partners must work together to ensure our children are socialized into our Catholic faith.
Should I be re-elected, I promise to continue to advocate for safeguarding our constitutional right to maintain funding for Catholic schools for future generations. I promise also to continue to actively listen and hear the constituents of my wards and be their authentic representative at the SMCDSB table.
Website – www.hardie4trustee.com
Email – [email protected]
