Experience:
Heather's journey in advocacy began in 2008 when she successfully ran for a seat as a school trustee in Chilliwack. Her consistent electoral victories over the last fifteen years, in five subsequent elections, underscore the trust and confidence her community places in her leadership. Throughout her tenure, Heather has consistently championed foundational reading skill attainment, emphasizing the critical role of literacy in the learning process. Her belief that "First, we learn to read, then we read to learn" has become a guiding principle in her approach to education.
Championing Education:
Heather's advocacy extends beyond her role as a school trustee. She recognizes the need for systemic and purposeful changes in the provincial education system, advocating for legislative measures to address these challenges. A strong proponent of parental rights, Heather believes in respecting and supporting parents' goals to raise healthy and responsible young individuals. Her vision emphasizes that children do not belong solely to schools or governments; rather, parental rights should be supported by legislation to ensure a collaborative and supportive educational environment.
In her pursuit of a provincial role as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Heather brings a wealth of experience, a deep sense of community involvement, and a steadfast commitment to championing education. Her advocacy extends beyond political aspirations, rooted in a genuine desire to contribute positively to the well-being of her community and the education system as a whole.
Community Involvement:
Heather's commitment to her community is evident through her active involvement in various initiatives and organizations. She took specialized training in Orton Gillingham tutoring and Early Assessment from the University of Hull, Great Britain, showcasing her dedication to enhancing educational methods. For many years, she moderated an email listserv where stakeholders, including school trustees, parents, teachers, and ministry officials, engaged in discussions on education issues. This platform facilitated the exchange of data, research, and articles, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing educational challenges.
Family First:
In 1993, Heather and her husband made the significant decision to move their young family from North Vancouver to Chilliwack, BC. Together, they ran a construction company, navigating the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Tragically, Heather's husband unexpectedly passed away in 2009, marking a profound moment of change in their lives.
Heather is exceedingly proud of her three adult children, highlighting the joy and fulfillment they bring to her life. Additionally, she embraces the role of "Nan" with enthusiasm, cherishing her relationships with eleven incredible grandchildren. For Heather, family is not only a source of personal fulfillment but also a driving force behind her commitment to making the world a better place for future generations.
Her experiences as a mother and grandmother have undoubtedly shaped her perspective on community service and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of creating a positive and nurturing environment for all families.
As Heather ventures into political candidacy and community service, her dedication to family values remains evident, guiding her aspirations to contribute to a better future for her loved ones and the broader community.
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