WEBSITE: moniquelisi.ca

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1. Why are you the best candidate for trustee?
I have a deep understanding of how the TDSB operates. Having worked with the Board and TDSB on programs across the GTA, I know the issues in our schools and communities and the difference that a strong Board can make. Throughout my career, in both the private and public sector, I have always used my influence to effect positive change.
I understand how to apply business principles in the public service to ensure taxpayer dollars are respected and leveraged for maximum impact. My experience managing large budgets, fiscal prudence and focus on accountability have contributed to my success as an entrepreneur.

2. What changes would you like to see at the school board in the next four years?
As a representative for the communities of SSW (Ward 18), I will work to implement a number of changes that include more informed decision-making; improved consensus building; efficient and responsible use of existing resources as well as representing the community voice and perspective in the Boardroom. I will promote strong leadership both at the board and in our schools to make all schools effective schools and schools of choice. I will defend what I believe are non-negotiable basics in our schools, excellent teaching and stimulating curriculum, by promoting strong leadership and ensuring Principals recruit teachers who are willing to go above and beyond and understand their higher moral purpose.

3. What is your position on the TDSB consolidating under-enrolled schools and selling off closed school properties?
The schools in Scarborough-Southwest are vital to the community and enrollment is currently not an issue. That being said, declining enrollment has been a Board issue for the past 10 years with an annual drop in enrollment of 4,000 students per year. As provincial funding is directly linked with student numbers and as capital investment in our schools is integral in creating and preserving effective and safe schools, I support re-investing in our schools. I will consider, through informed decision-making, parent engagement and consultation, options that will contribute to:
* Building better local school communities
* Preserving education close to home
* Impacting education and student success in a positive way

4. Do you support the province’s decision to try to negotiate two-year, no wage increase contracts with the school board’s unionized employees when existing agreements expire?
Through Provincial Discussion Tables, the Province has assumed the responsibility for wage negotiations from the TDSB. With regards to the greater collective bargaining process, I am a strong advocate of finding common interest and the common interest here is clear – student success and achievement. The overall goal is to ensure the best person is in front of our children. The Board still has bargaining rights to negotiate important issues such as work standards and discipline and I will use my experience to make sure the student is a priority regardless of your role or responsibility within the school system.

5. Please provide personal details on your bio.
I am Co-Founder of Lisi Therapeutics, a cancer research company working with Sick Kids, University of Toronto, Princess Margaret, Toronto Western, Sunnybrook and Women’s College hospitals. I am past Director of Public Affairs for Toronto East General and York Central hospitals, as a member of their Senior Management teams. I have spearheaded lobbying initiatives for fair funding and have helped to shape fiscal practice within these organizations. I have implemented advocacy initiatives using partnership and collaboration to deliver community programs. One example is a Hearing, Vision, Speech & Language program that brought together health and education with the TDSB, to improve student success.