“You’re young. Why should I trust you with my kid’s school?”
Because I’ve already done the work. I spent two terms as an HWDSB student trustee, and since then I’ve managed a research facility at McMaster University and run projects in the private sector. That showed me from the inside how public organizations like school boards and universities really operate.
What I learned is simple: amid all the noise, clear strategic goals are what actually reach kids on the ground. Every decision I make will start with the same questions: how will this help our students, and how will we measure it?
“Do you even live in Ward 1?”
No. I live in a neighbouring ward, and I want to be upfront about that. Trustees don’t have to live in the ward they represent, and I chose Ward 1 because it’s the community I’m most connected to.
When my high school closed, most of my classmates moved to Westdale, a Ward 1 school. I studied at McMaster for four years, then worked there for a year managing the LIVELab, all in Ward 1. I feel closer to Ward 1 than to the ward I live in, and it’s where I want to serve.
“You ran in 2022 and lost. What’s different now?”
Purpose and experience. In 2022 I was 20 and fresh out of my student trustee terms. Since then I’ve finished my degree, managed a public research facility, and taken on private-sector project management.
I’m running because I believe HWDSB needs what I can now bring: board cohesion, a level head, and private-sector experience weighing risks and benefits up front. I want to make strategic budget decisions and keep the focus on what matters most: our students.
“Student trustees don’t get a real vote. What did you actually get done?”
- Smarter tech spending. I proposed giving schools an opt-in, bring-your-own-device option instead of one iPad per student, so technology dollars go where they make the biggest difference. Families should be free to choose their own technology, and public education shouldn’t require kids to hand their personal data to a tech company just to take part.
- Gave students a voice on e-learning. As Public Affairs Coordinator for the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association, I led the publication of eLearning: The Students’ Perspective, a survey of about 6,000 students that helped change the province’s mandatory e-learning plan. Many students learn best with a person guiding them, not just a screen.
- Got into every school. My co-trustee and I were the first HWDSB student trustees to visit every high school we represented. Today, those visits are standard practice.
“The province is taking over school boards. Why does this vote even matter?”
Because Ontario is rethinking how school boards are governed, and that’s an opportunity. When we elect trustees who collaborate, take their financial responsibilities seriously and stay accountable, we show together what a strong local voice can do for our kids.
“You have a full-time job. Will you have time?”
Yes. Most trustees balance the role with a full-time job, and that outside experience is exactly what makes them useful in keeping schools accountable. My project management work is what helps me keep budgets and timelines honest. And I’m easy to reach: text me any time at (905) 818-7110.
“Is this just a stepping stone to council or Queen’s Park?”
No. This run wasn’t part of a career plan. People who’ve seen the board up close encouraged me to put my name forward, and I said yes because I believe I can help HWDSB right now. If politics ever becomes more than that, I’d be grateful, but it isn’t why I’m running.
“Who’s backing you?”
Only the people who vote for me. I’m fully independent: no party, no slate, no interest group. And I won’t lean on name-drops. I’d rather earn your confidence myself than borrow it from anyone else.
“What will you actually do in your first year?”
Two things you can hold me to:
- Push for a transparent budget review. Where is HWDSB’s money going, and what is it doing for students? I’ve seen this work up close at the board’s Audit Committee. Part of that is exploring how we can foster and embrace our community partners, so they can collaborate more closely with us to improve a disconnected childcare system.
- Be the relay a trustee is meant to be. I’ll keep a running list of every Ward 1 school council’s issues and take each one to the right board staff, then report back.
“How do I reach you once you’re elected?”
Text me any time at (905) 818-7110. I take calls from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. whenever I’m free. I’ll attend Ward 1 school council meetings at least once a quarter, visit schools consistently, and show up whenever I’m asked. Easy.
“What does a school trustee actually do?”
Trustees govern the school board. They set the budget and direction for Hamilton’s public schools, hire and oversee the Director of Education, and carry their community’s concerns to the board table. Here’s the two-minute version.
Got a question that isn’t here?
Ask me. Send a message, email cameron@prosic.ca, or text (905) 818-7110.