This is why we need new Trustees:
1. We need Trustees that will not cut funding that affects essential student supports. Fewer supports for students means more stress, less stability, and reduced access for students who need help the most.
2. We need Trustees that understand that the current increase in safety concerns are linked to reduced staffing and the normalization of violence to students and staff. We need new Trustees that will focus on decision-making that will increase safe learning environments; not one where violence is hidden or minimized.
3. We need Trustees that will not limit public access to information about district decisions. Public education requires public accountability — families deserve transparency, communication, and access to information. The public deserves the right to ask questions at a public board meeting, not to be told what they are allowed to ask. The public deserves to be informed on the decisions that are made.
We are proud to endorse the candidates from Our Surrey: Kyle Jones, Vick Karan, Anne Whitmore and Dean McGee along with Laurie Larson for Surrey First Education
Kyle Jones
Kyle Jones has spent his career supporting students directly in classrooms, giving him a strong understanding of what public education looks like on the ground. Kyle has worked in the Surrey School District and has first-hand experience to what students need in order to make better Surrey schools.
As an Education Assistant, community advocate, and Surrey resident born and raised, he has seen firsthand the pressures facing students, families, and school staff. His experience has shaped his commitment to transparent governance, responsible stewardship of public resources, and ensuring that supports reach the students who need them most.
Kyle focuses on equitable access to services and learning environments that allow every student to grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.
Laurie Larson
CUPE 728 proudly endorses Laurie Larson for Surrey School Trustee.
Laurie’s years of public service show a strong commitment to public education and an understanding of the challenges facing Surrey students, families, and school employees. Her community involvement, local government experience, and 15 years as President of Local 402 give her valuable insight into strong public services and collaborative leadership.
CUPE 728 recently met with Laurie to discuss Surrey Schools’ growth, funding and staffing needs, and the vital role of support staff in student success. She listened carefully and shared her vision for a district where students and employees are supported and respected.
Laurie recognizes that student success depends on everyone working in our schools. Educational assistants, clerical staff, caretakers, trades workers, Indigenous support staff, youth care workers, and other support staff are essential to safe, inclusive, and effective learning environments. We believe she understands and values their contributions.
CUPE 728 believes strong public education depends on productive relationships among Trustees, employee groups, and the community. Our discussions give us confidence that Laurie will listen, collaborate, advocate for students, and value those who support them every day.
Laurie is part of the candidate team ‘Surrey First Education’ and is the only candidate from that group being endorsed by CUPE728 and Better Surrey Schools.
Vick karan
Vick Karan was raised in Surrey and spent both his elementary and secondary school years in the Surrey School District, which has given Vick a first-hand knowledge of what schools need in order for students to feel safe, families to feel connected and to be heard.
As a Surrey resident, he is a dedicated public servant who brings valuable leadership experience and a strong commitment to community service. His work in public service, combined with a background in financial leadership and public administration, has given him a solid understanding of accountability, responsible decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving.
Vick’s experience has reinforced the importance of building strong, trusting relationships between schools, families, and the broader community. He is focused on ensuring that every student has access to the supports, stability, and opportunities they need to succeed.
dean mcgee
Dean McGee has spent his 30-year career working in construction. He has seen how Surrey continues to grow but school construction just doesn't keep up.
Dean was the DPAC (District Parent Advisory Council) President in 2018 to 2019 for the Surrey School District and later became the Communications Director. Through this work he saw the many challenges faced by students, staff and parents.
Dean knew he wanted to make a difference. In the last three years he has continued to advocate for students in Surrey with his work on the BC facilities committee. In the last three years. Dean knows firsthand the importance of a safe and healthy school space for learners and staff.
Dean has three kids that all graduated from Surrey Public Schools and this has motivated him to get involved and still continues to motivate him to be involved to make change.
anne whitmore
CUPE 728 knows firsthand the strength and leadership that Anne Whitmore brings through years of collaboration in support of Surrey students. From fighting to stop cuts to StrongStart and learning centers, rallying at the legislature in Victoria along side support staff and the Surrey Teacher’s Association at a Surrey MLA Office, Annes focus as always been to ensure our children have access to proper education.
Anne is dedicated to building strong connections through a collaborative approach with families, school staff, and decision-makers, focusing on fostering relationships, encouraging meaningful dialogue, and bringing education partners together to support student success. She worked alongside the Surrey Teachers’ Association and CUPE 728 on the “Surrey Students Deserve Better” campaign, which highlighted the challenges facing Surrey students and the need for greater support in Surrey schools.
As the current DPAC President and leadership coach Anne has extensive experience in parent advocacy and community leadership, Anne is a respected and consistent voice for public education in Surrey. Anne is committed to ensuring students have access to appropriate learning environments and the supports they need to thrive. She believes that accountability, respect, and collaboration are key principles in strengthening public education for all students.
