WEBSITE: www.parthi2010.ca

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1. Why are you the best candidate for trustee?
Over the past year I pursued a Masters in Education, which provided me the opportunity to teach in two schools in the ward, John A. Leslie P.S. and Regent Heights P.S. I have gained a first-hand experience of the realities and challenges facing our children and schools. That is why Physical, Nutritional and Character Education have formed my priorities. Also, having lived in the ward for more than 22 years, I know the incredible importance of transforming our schools into community hubs. When schools become the focal point of a neighbhourhood, we will see the re-birth of community spirit and unity.

2. What changes would you like to see at the school board in the next four years?
The past twenty years has seen the nature of diversity change in Scarborough Southwest. As a result, our children grow up amidst different values, beliefs and ideas. However, I believe a common value set exists – values such as, honesty, responsibility and respect. As trustee, I will seek to develop character education programs to foster unity in our diversity. Also, I will push, prioritize and work hard for the implementation of daily physical activity for our children. Not only does increased physical activity provide immediate and long-term health benefits, studies reveal it boosts self-esteem and improves academic performance.

3. What is your position on the TDSB consolidating under-enrolled schools and selling off closed school properties?
I am a strong believer in transforming our schools (which are public spaces) into vibrant and engaging community hubs. Currently, use of school facilities is not maximized during the evenings, weekends and summers. As a society we have come to view schools solely as institutions of learning. However, they are ultimately tax-payer funded buildings and as such should be utilized for programs and services that benefit all residents of the community. Also, I am closely aware of the ebb and flow of population demographics. Thus, we have to be cognizant about not trading long-term interests for short-term gain.

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?
The reality of the various boards across the province is that they differ by their realities, needs and challenges. Thus, I am in favour of local school boards having greater control in the negotiation process with our board’s unionized employees. This is more of a reality when we consider that Toronto is a unique and diverse city.

5. Please provide personal details on your bio.
I have lived in Scarborough Southwest for more than 22 years. I come from a family of teachers – my father was a chemistry and calculus teacher in the TDSB.
I studied Mathematics and Political Science at the University of Waterloo. This past year, I pursued a Masters in Education at Medaille College in Amherst, New York. Before entering education, I worked in the private sector as a business analyst for a private Canadian telecommunications company, gaining valuable experience working with budgets in the millions of dollars. As Chair of the Corvette Residents Association, I successfully led representations at City Hall and the Ontario Municipal Board for the interests of our neighbourhood.