Why Your Voice Matters.

kpuszkar11
Sep 26
2 min read

Updated: Oct 1

Education isn’t just about classrooms and textbooks — it’s about people. Parents, students, teachers, education assistants, Elders, and community members all play a role in shaping how our schools grow and thrive. As a trustee candidate here in Airdrie, I want to make sure your voice is part of that conversation.

For me, this work isn’t about launching a “program” or running a campaign buzzword. It’s about connection, listening, and rolling up our sleeves together to strengthen our schools.

Why Engagement Matters

School trustees are elected to represent the community. That means showing up, asking the hard questions, and keeping students at the centre of every decision. But trustees can’t (and shouldn’t) do that alone — it takes honest conversations with families, staff, and neighbours.

When Airdrie families and community members are engaged, students benefit through:

Better support for learning and well-being
More trust between schools and families
Stronger connections that make schools welcoming and safe

How we can Connect

Getting involved doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple ways we can connect include:

Coming out to community conversations - October 6th, 2025 at Inspire - Airdrie Public Library
Sharing your thoughts by email or in person — every story matters. (kpuszkar11@gmail.com)
Following along on social media, where I’ll post updates and invite discussion - @voteforKristi

My Commitments

Here’s what I believe matters most in Airdrie schools:

Community Engagement: Open dialogue between parents, teachers, Elders, and trustees.
Transparency: Clear, plain-language decision-making so families know what’s happening and why. Have meetings in the evenings be accessible to the public. Remove barriers to public participation.
Accountability: Trustees should answer to the community, not just nod along with central office. We need to stand with parents, teachers and students. I will be accountable to you!

Why Transparency & Accountability Matter

Airdrie is one of the fastest growing communities in Alberta, but families are often left in the dark about decisions that directly affect our kids. That has to change.

Families should have access to updated budget snapshots that show where dollars go.
Trustees should report back regularly on their work and decisions — not just every four years. I would love to host a Tea with the Trustee night at a local coffee house monthly.
Feedback channels need to be real and accessible, not just buried in a form somewhere on a different website.

The Future of Education in Airdrie

Imagine a future where:

Parents don’t have to scramble to find out where their child will go to high school.
Classrooms aren’t overcrowded, and students have access to supports when and where they need them.
Schools are seen as community hubs, where families feel welcome and connected.