MOOSE JAW — Seven people are running in the upcoming school board elections to be a trustee with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, although only the Moose Jaw subdivision requires a vote.
Joann Blazieko, Christine Boyczuk, Alison Bradish, Derek Hassen, Lee Moyse, Marc Perrault and Dana Thiessen have submitted their names to serve on the board during the next four years.
Perrault will represent the Swift Current area by acclamation because no one opposed him, nor did incumbent Ted Wallin run again.
Thiessen will represent the Shaunavon area by acclamation because no one opposed her, nor did incumbent Stephanie Nelson run again.
Meanwhile, Blazieko, Boyczuk, Bradish, Hassen and Moyse are attempting to secure one of four seats in Moose Jaw; Moyse is the only new candidate, while the other four are incumbents.
Candidate biographies
According to Holy Trinity’s election web page:
Joann Blazieko: “Joann Blazieko has been a dedicated member of the Holy Trinity Board of Education for over a decade, having been elected three times since 2012. With 10 years of experience as the chairperson of the board, Joann has been instrumental in guiding the board’s policies and decisions, consistently advocating for the best interests of students, teachers, and the broader Catholic community.
“Professional background: Joann brings her expertise as a Registered Nurse, currently working with the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Her professional experience extends to her active membership in the discipline panel of the College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan, where she upholds the highest standards of care and ethics in the profession for both herself and others.
“Community engagement: A committed member of St. Joseph Parish, Joann is a practising Catholic who has previously served as vice-chair of the parish council, playing a key role in the spiritual and community life of the parish. Beyond her contributions to the parish, Joann has also been a passionate advocate for youth sports, actively participating in Moose Jaw Soccer and Moose Jaw Little League Baseball, where she has supported the development and well-being of young athletes.
“Commitment to Catholic education: Joann Blazieko is steadfast in her commitment to Catholic education, recognizing its vital role in nurturing faith, character and academic excellence for this generation of students and beyond. She remains dedicated to ensuring that Holy Trinity continues to provide a nurturing and faith-filled environment for staff and students.”
Christine Boyczuk: “Christine Boyczuk was a teacher, administrator, director of education. During her time in education, Christine was involved in promoting restorative approaches in the classroom and schools. Some of these practices were supportive behaviour models, mindfulness, classroom meetings, use of restorative questions, developmental assets, and circle of courage.
“Following retirement from the Davidson School Division, Christine became the Regional lntersectoral co-ordinator for the Moose Jaw South-Central Region. Working with other agencies, the following practices were implemented — alternatives to suspension, positive ticketing, the HUB and the Moose Jaw Drug Treatment Court.
“As a board member and chair of the Provincial John Howard Society, Christine supported youth housing, conflict resolution/mediation, fine option, and practices to support individuals in correctional facilities.
“At present, Christine is the Moose Jaw Literacy Network co-ordinator. She is a member of the Provincial Integrated Youth Services Board, chair of Age-Friendly Moose Jaw, member of City of Moose Jaw accessibility committee and member of Square One Community. Currently, Christine also volunteers at St. Joseph's Church. Christine's passions are collaboration and engagement.”
Alison Bradish: “Alison Bradish is seeking a second term as trustee for the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division (HTCSD). She served the division as one of the directors of the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association and was appointed the HTCSD representative for St. Joseph Parish Council.
“She has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism as well as Public Sector Governance Certification. Alison lives with her husband Robert and their three children. Her experience as a current trustee, plus her involvement as a parent with children in elementary and high school, give her a first-hand and relatable perspective about education.”
Derek Hassen: “It has been my honour to serve as a trustee and I am humbled to request your support in allowing me to serve another term. I have spent 28 years involved in education. It is near and dear to my heart.
“I have been an employee of the school division and long-term volunteer coach. Now, as a business owner, I wish to continue contributing to Holy Trinity. I believe my skill set as a financial planner assists in understanding the division finances and my experience as an educator and administrator assists in managing the direction of the school division.
“As a current trustee, the experience has been invaluable. I have been actively involved with both parishes and will continue to build the relationship between school division, church, and home.”
Lee Moyse: “My wife and I arrived in Moose Jaw in 1996. We have two adult children who attended the Moose Jaw Catholic schools. I am an active member of St. Joseph’s Parish. I am a long-term member of the Knights of Columbus and actively participate in many events throughout the year.
“I have an extensive volunteer background, having coached baseball, soccer, and as a Scout leader. I was a member of the Kinsmen and scheduling director for co-ed rec volleyball. I was involved in speed skating for many years as a coach, club president, meet co-ordinator and a member of the provincial board.
“My career as a customer service office manager and volunteerism has given me significant experience working with people of varying backgrounds and levels of education. I work with various boards and serve on multiple committees. I have extensive experience developing policy and procedures and maintaining budgets in my current position.
“This role will be a natural fit to give back to the community.”
