Catholic trustee candidates weigh in on election issues continued from p. 19 "Now that I'm retired, 1 would still like to be an active participant in issues concerning education," she said. Peritore said the biggest issue facing Oakville is equitable access to learning opportunities for every child, regardless of the school they attend, and ensuring teachers and children have equal opportunity for the learning resources they need. "I have three children in Catholic schools and see the value their education has in their lives and the lives of people around them. I have interest and time, work well with others and want to be a part of making Catholic education the best it can possibly be for every child," said Peritore. If elected, Quinn wants to enhance the STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) to prepare "our children for competitive post-secondary (education) and global workplace environments," he said. "The Halton Catholic school board offers one of Ontario' s best educational experiences. However, math scores are on the decline and changes are needed to bring functional numeracy back to kids and teens," said Quinn. With two children enrolled in the HCDSB system, Vrban said he wants to ensure the environment they're in is a "faith-based one that will not compromise values" while providing an academically-progressive environment where children feel welcomed, loved and supported. "I (also) want to ensure we have strong and dedicated educators in our system who share the boards goals and philosophies," said Vrban. 2 3 |Thursday, October 23, 2014 | OAKVILLE BEAVER The French Catholic School Board (ConseH scolaire de district catholique Centre Sud) Trustee candidates are incumbent Dominique Janssens and Rafik Morcos. Janssens, a trustee for five years, said he wants to build new schools for a "greater school capacity to manage overpopulation in existing schools" and increase networking to reach all eligible students to curb the assimilation rate. "1 promise to enforce the sustainability of our school system before all levels of government," saidJanssens. For Morcos, keeping students in the French Catholic schools is an important issue. He feels the "board does not put the youth education quality" in its priorities. "They spend an important portion of the budget towards new furniture, redecorating schools, and expensive mosaic paintings, when we claim not having funds for educational programs like the Special Education (EED), the ALF and others," said Morcos. M IC H A E L 'S BACK DOOR RESTAURANT 33rd Anniversary Celebration Now thru October 31st Our customers w ill tell you: A1 Cares. - Harold | www.insideHALTON.com - ; You really stepped up to the plate... You offered me a d e a linstalled the same week with a ten-year warranty. This action went well beyond what I expected. Your company will always be Number One... J 5 Fabulous 3 Course Meal $33 1715 Lakeshore Road West www. michaelsbackdoor. com L 905 822 5751 905- 844-2949 TRUSTED. SAFE. QUALITY. COMFORT. A1 AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING A1 CARES.