Chinook School Division is featuring profiles on our Board members. We gave them a series of questions to answer so our families and communities can get to know them a little better...
Trustee Profile: TIM WEINBENDER
Tim is a Trustee for Subdivision 3, which includes public schools in Hodgeville, Herbert, and Waldeck as well as Hutterian schools in the area - Norfolk (Hodgeville), Southland (Herbert), Capeland (Main Center), and Friesen (Waldeck). Tim was elected to the Chinook Board of Education in fall 2009.
Why did you become a trustee?
I became a trustee to ensure rural education has a voice and representation.
What do you think you bring to the Board table?
I believe that I contribute a working rural knowledge to the table, as well as sound logic and problem solving abilities. My past experiences of being on several working boards and advisory committees (rural, finance, and policy making) has also allowed me to greater my contributions to the board.
What kinds of things does a board of education do?
Together as a board, we work towards developing policies and strategies that ensure the greatest quality of education possible for the students within our division. We also must decide how to disburse the budget accordingly, with the financial constraints that we are given.
What is your most memorable school event or activity you have been apart of?
I have had the opportunity to attend many graduation ceremonies, Christmas dinners, awards ceremonies, science fairs, and school tours.
What do you feel is one of the most important issues facing the Education sector today?
The underfunding of rural education is one of the most important issues that the Education sector is facing today.
What is your most heart-warming and/or funniest moment in your time as a trustee?
The most gratifying event that I am able to attend each year is the graduation ceremonies as it is rewarding to witness the students celebrate their hard work and accomplishments.
What do you want people to know about being a trustee?
It is a serious commitment, and it can be far more time-consuming that one would expect. With that said, it can also be very rewarding.
What are you looking forward to in regards to the future of the Education sector?
I am hoping to see adequate funding for rural school divisions as well as rural schools so that the students can excel and prosper, continuing on to make a greater contribution to our society.
