Educator wins Ward 1 byelection in Pembina Trails

St. James-Assiniboia

Charleswood

Tuxedo

Samantha Pope, who has 12 years of experience in the education system, was the successful candidate in the Pembina Trails School Division’s Ward 1 byelection on Oct. 25.

“I’m feeling really, really good,” Pope said in the week after she won the trustee’s seat. “I’m excited to get started. And it was just great to see so many candidates step forward, to put their name forward … and then to be elected out of all of them, it feels really good.”

Pope holds a degree in education, a bachelor of science degree in mathematics, a post-baccalaureate diploma in education, and a master of education degree in curriculum, teaching and learning, according to a release from Pembina Trails. She currently works as a high school guidance counsellor in the St. James-Assiniboia School Division.

She said that, although it’s only “one short year” before the next school board election in 2026, her focus in the meantime will be on building relationships with other trustees, senior administration, school staff and the general community.

“During the campaign, I had so many conversations with residents about what mattered most to them, and I plan to keep those conversations going by listening, learning and staying open as I work with the community to support our schools,” she said.

“I would say my top priority is, and always will be, student achievement,” she continued. “One of the reasons I believe I was elected is my experience as a teacher. I understand how schools work and what students need to succeed, and I plan to bring that perspective to every decision, (and) making sure that the needs of students are always at the center of our work.”

Asked if she thought her knowledge of the education system would provide a unique outlook to this position, she agreed.

“I’ve been in several different schools and worked with all kinds of teachers, administrators, and students, and I feel that experience will definitely help my perspective as a trustee,” Pope said.

The mother of two said she wanted to thank “everyone who took the time to vote and engage with this election.”

“I also want to thank the other eight candidates for putting their names forward and showing how much our community really values public education … I’m honoured to serve, and I look forward to working hard for the students, staff and families of Pembina Trails.”