Michel LaBonte seeks re-election as UCDSB trustee

He acknowledged that challenges remain, including Grade 6 math, but said the board has identified the issues and will focus on improving results

After four years on the board, Michel LaBonte is seeking re-election as Upper Canada District School Board trustee for Ward 5.

LaBonte first ran for trustee in 2018 but fell short. Shortly afterward, he applied to become a member-at-large on the board’s Special Education Advisory Committee, where he has remained ever since.

LaBonte outlined some of the most pressing issues currently facing the UCDSB.

He also said many teachers are expected to retire within the next five years, making it important to bring new teachers into the system to fill the gaps.

LaBonte said individual trustees do not have authority on their own, but the governing board has two main priorities.

LaBonte said UCDSB high schools reached a record graduation rate of 91.7 per cent last year, surpassing the board’s goal of exceeding 90 per cent, which it had been working toward for more than a decade.

Over the past three years, LaBonte said the UCDSB has been the only school board in Ontario to improve in every measure of the provincial testing system.

He acknowledged that challenges remain, including Grade 6 math, but said the board has identified the issues and will focus on improving results.

LaBonte said he has the experience, time, energy and skill set to continue serving on what he considers one of the most respected school boards in Ontario.

Story by: Evan Gibb