With six years of experience with Powell River and District United Way, Ashley Hull hopes to transfer her experience for the benefit of local students as she runs for Powell River Board of Education trustee in the November civic elections.
After moving to Powell River in 2006 to start and raise her family, Hull found her heart and home in this “inspiring and compassionate” weave of community networks.
Hull also feels that there must be some vital changes in the way school districts do business. “I believe that staying the course will not be enough for our students,” she said. “Changing demands in the workforce mean we need to graduate students who are adaptive and well-prepared for the opportunities they will be presented.”
She explained that Powell River needs to elect trustees who personify these same characteristics, “individuals who can respond to upcoming challenges with optimism and the best interests at heart.”
Her time at United Way has helped Hull learn how to collaborate and think creatively to make sure local programs are not cut when facing a shortage of funds. “Our schools are experiencing the same problem with declining enrolment,” she said. “Now is the time to market Powell River to a broader global educational audience and ensure classes for our students and jobs for our young teachers.”
Beyond an expanded international student program, Hull would love to see specialized programs or the creation of “magnet schools,” attracting potential new families to the area. Bringing new students means keeping and creating jobs for Powell River’s younger teaching workforce, since “our younger teaching workforce, and their households, represent a portion of our student base as well. Losing them to other communities only perpetuates our problem of declining enrolment.”
As an educator and parent, Hull hopes to bring new ideas to the board and “build educational momentum” with her energy and commitment.
“I have always had a passion for youth and leadership, which inspired me in choosing a career path. I believe in the potential of all of our youth here in Powell River and want them to become the very best our community has seen,” Hull added.
Being a team player and having a positive outlook is how Hull hopes to achieve this outcome. “Running a household with young children has taught me patience and cooperation,” she said. “It takes a team to accomplish our most ambitious goals.”
