How To Vote
Visit the Red Deer city website here to find your voting times and locations.
Election Survey
| Ward | Candidate Name | Responded |
|---|---|---|
| At Large | Emilee Baird Smith | ❌ |
| Nicole Buchanan | ❌ | |
| Sheri Christensen | ❌ | |
| Jason Dalstra | ❌ | |
| Nathan Davies | ❌ | |
| David Farrell | ✅ | |
| Dianne MacAulay | ❌ | |
| Shelley Lynn Odishaw | ❌ | |
| Jenessa Parker | ❌ | |
| Cathy Peacocke | ❌ | |
| Angela Sommers | ❌ | |
| Jessica Symons | ❌ | |
| Jim Watters | ❌ | |
| Danielle Williams | ✅ |
Question 1
Parents have consistently said they believe school boards should prioritize core academics. Do you believe that priority is currently reflected in your school board's budget? If not, what would you change?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: "With the many challenges facing our education system today, it is clear that we need to refocus on core academics while also addressing the broader realities impacting our schools. The idea of “more funding” sounds ideal, but in truth, there is only so much to go around. From both personal and professional experience with youth, I can say that we are facing an unprecedented crisis within our social and economic systems. Increasingly, the weight of these issues is being carried by our public education system and the dedicated professionals who serve within it.This reality demands a thoughtful re-examination of how we support education. We must not only increase funding but also ensure it is directed where it will have the greatest impact—meeting the complex and evolving needs of today’s youth and families. By doing so, we can provide the resources, programs, and supports necessary to help every student thrive.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I agree that support for core academics is vital. If it is not currently being reflected in our budget, I would do whatever I could to make it a priority.
Question 2
Do you believe the money following the student to the education that parents choose is an important element of accountability for public education or a threat?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: I want to start by saying that I am running for Public School Trustee. As such, I believe that most funding collected through taxes should be allocated to support public education for those who choose to direct their contributions accordingly. Public education plays an essential role in providing equitable learning opportunities and fostering informed, engaged citizens. Alternative education options should remain available for those who prefer them, supported through private funding and the individual taxpayer’s choice. More accountability is needed to see that parental choice as to were their dollars are allocated is offered through tax collection and direction.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I do feel that it's an important element of accountability for public education. Parents should have the right to choose the education they believe is best for their child and their money should be able to be allocated to their choice, as long as the children are still being taught core academics.
Question 3
Do you believe local decision-makers should take responsibility for local decisions, or do you believe decisions are best made centrally?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: I believe parents, families, and the community should play a more active role in our education system and the development of curriculum. A stronger partnership between home, school, and community creates a more supportive and effective learning environment for every student.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: Local decisions should be made locally.
Question 4
Do you believe your school board is currently transparent enough with parents and taxpayers? What would you change?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: I believe the Red Deer Public School Board has done a commendable job in maintaining transparency. With increased involvement from parents, families, and the broader community, this transparency and trust can be strengthened even further.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I am not informed on this but, I do support transparency.
Question 5
Can you commit to removing any policies that require secrets to be kept from parents by policy, without an individual, exceptional circumstance being identified?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: Transparency is vital in any board or government, while still protecting the privacy of individuals and families. The board must keep the public informed in all matters—we are their voice and their advocates.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I will do whatever I can to ensure that parents are informed and kept in the loop. I don't agree with secrets being kept from parents, unless under certain exceptional circumstances.
Question 6
Do you believe parents should be informed before abortion, sexual assault, marriage, or questions about deciding to have children are covered in school, in a way similar to the requirements around sexual identity or religious identity?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: Conversations around ideologies, including those related to gender identity, begin within the home and family environment. As a public system, we must focus on respecting diverse perspectives, individuality, and personal choice—while maintaining balance. Celebrating diversity is vital, but dedicating extended focus to one lifestyle or ideology can overshadow the broader goal of inclusion. I support an “opt-in” approach, as it encourages parental involvement and gives families greater choice in what their children are exposed to.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: yes
Question 7
Do you believe program and course development at the school board level must be transparent and focused on clearly defined knowledge outcomes?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: As stated above, transparency is vital in any board or government. The board must keep the public informed in all matters—we are their voice and their advocates.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: yes
Question 8
What are your thoughts on communicating progress clearly with letter grades and percentages, as opposed to "descriptive grading", at all grade levels?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: In the early grades, I support the approach of teachers providing progress-based feedback rather than strict grading, as it helps build confidence and encourages a positive attitude toward learning. However, as students advance into middle and high school, I believe a structured grading system using letters and percentages becomes essential. This prepares youth for real-life challenges, accountability, and the expectations of post-secondary education. Let’s help prepare them for life.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I support communicating progress with letter grades and percentages, as opposed to more vague and unclear grading practices.
Question 9
Professional development days for teachers and other school board staff are negotiated locally. Do you believe your school board currently has negotiated the right number of professional development days? If not, what changes would you like to advocate for?
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: It is important for every professional to continue their education in order to adapt to new information, methods, and ideas. I believe teachers are generally provided sufficient opportunities to expand and advance their skills; however, we need to focus on reducing the time pressures placed upon them. Ensuring teachers have adequate preparation time and appropriate breaks throughout the day is essential for maintaining focus, energy, and the high quality of education our students deserve.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I am not overly informed on this yet.
Question 10
Do you support or oppose the impending teachers' strike? Please explain your reasoning.
At Large
7 To Be Elected
Emilee Baird Smith: No response.
Nicole Buchanan: No response.
Sheri Christensen: No response.
Jason Dalstra: No response.
Nathan Davies: No response.
David Farrell: I can say we are facing an unprecedented crisis within our social and economic systems. Increasingly, the burden of these challenges is being carried by our public education system and the dedicated professionals who work within it. You have to stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything. While a province-wide teachers’ strike is challenging for families, I support our professional educators in their efforts to bring attention to the critical issues we face. Their advocacy is essential to ensuring these concerns are properly addressed and that the focus remains on what truly matters—supporting students, families, and the future of education.
Dianne MacAulay: No response.
Shelley Lynn Odishaw: No response.
Jenessa Parker: No response.
Cathy Peacocke: No response.
Angela Sommers: No response.
Jessica Symons: No response.
Jim Watters: No response.
Danielle Williams: I do believe that teachers have a big job and should be supported but, I don't really support the strike. According to our provincial government, they were able to come to an agreement on wages, classroom complexities and classroom support. The remaining issues that have not been resolved do not justify keeping kids out of school.