Byelection Survey Question 1
Parents have consistently said they believe school boards should prioritize core academics. Do you believe that priority is currently reflected in the school board’s budget? If not, what would you change?
Wards 4 & 7
Joe Degagne:
Time to support children who are in overcrowded classrooms.
Dan Penna:
Initiatives related to DEI and anti-racism all cost money. This money needs to be redirected by eliminating these ideological programs. Teachers at the CCSD do not require training in anti-colonialism. They require improved core academic teaching skills, including improved skill and knowledge to impart the Catholic faith to students.
Maria-Teresa Vecchio-Romano:
Candidate did not complete our survey.
Wards 11 & 12
Steve Chapman:
I also believe that core academics should be the priority. I am not certain we can use the budget as the litmus test is that is being provided. At first glance the budget reports 93% of expenditures are for instruction and operations. Another 4% covers transportation. In business what gets measured gets managed. We need more detailed metrics on what does success look like. Do the kids we graduate really understand the academic material they have been exposed to? If not what are some of the obstacles we need to be addressing. One report I saw shows a significant increase in diversity across areas of language, culture and cognitive ability (such a a rise in ADHD diagnosis). Are we ensuring that each individual child is actually getting the instruction they require with the delivery they respond to. The board needs to be receiving a lot more unfiltered information from teachers on the front line.
Kimberly Cichon:
Literacy and numeracy are essential skills, and every child should have the opportunity to excel in these areas. As a trustee, I am committed to listening to parents' input when advocating for and making budgetary decisions.
Laura Dennison:
First of all, thank you for the opportunity to share my message with your members. Your question is a great one. In my many years as a volunteer on CCSD School – serving as Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Fundraising Coordinator – as well as with the Bishop Carroll Music Society as President, Vice President, and Secretary, I have had the privilege to evaluate and assess the strengths of the academic programs found within CCSD. I am pleased my family was able to select learning environments that best supported my children’s success. We chose both a traditional learning model, and an independent learning program offered at Bishop Carroll High School, where students progress at their own pace without fixed classes or schedules. This was very beneficial for both of my children as they not only could focus on their core academics, but it allowed them the flexibility to spend time on their passion for music, demonstrating that strong academic foundations can coexist with vibrant extracurricular opportunities. I found that throughout their entire education, core academics were well supported by great teachers. I personally believe that education must cater to the whole child. Each child learns differently, and each child deserves a rich offering of courses to develop them fully. By this I mean fine arts, sports programs, music, and drama, not only the core subjects. These elements are not mutually exclusive but complementary, engaging students and fostering their development in diverse ways. A well-rounded education ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their learning style or interests. CCSD has made strides in supporting core academics through skilled teachers and diverse program offerings. However, I believe there is always room to improve alignment between the board’s budget and the priorities of families. As a trustee, I would advocate for thoughtful budget decisions that maintain high standards in core academics while also ensuring vibrant, inclusive programming. This balanced approach will empower families to choose the educational path that best meets their children’s needs, ensuring that all students feel supported, engaged, and prepared for the future.
Chantelle Dur:
With four children in our district’s Catholic schools, I support an approach that ensures students develop strong foundations in reading, writing, and math. At the same time, faith formation is essential—it’s the heart of what makes our Catholic schools unique. A truly well-rounded education in a Catholic school nurtures both academic excellence and spiritual and moral growth.