Harvard Media News reached out to each candidate running for office to ask a set of questions on the office for which they are running. The following is our Q&A with Fort McMurray Public School Trustee Candidate, Jennifer Kennett. All responses are from the candidate or their agent and are unedited by Harvard Media News.
Harvard: What do you see as the key issues facing students and teachers today?
I see several important challenges currently facing students and teachers:
Rapid enrollment growth and overcrowding – Our community continues to grow quickly, and schools are feeling the pressure. We need not only more classrooms and buildings but also more human capital (teachers, support staff, and resources) to meet demand.
Diverse needs in the classroom – Classrooms today include a wide range of learning styles, abilities, and personal circumstances. Ensuring that there are enough supports, such as educational assistants and early intervention/diverse needs programs, is essential to help every student succeed.
Student and teacher well-being – Both students and teachers are navigating high expectations and increasing workloads. We need to continue finding the right balance between academic success and mental health, ensuring that everyone feels supported and valued.
Loss of student autonomy and new consent requirements – Recent legislation requiring parental consent for the use of preferred names or pronouns has created additional challenges. It’s important that we remain mindful of how these changes affect students’ sense of safety, belonging, and autonomy at school.
Harvard: How familiar are you with the Alberta Education Act and the limitations placed on trustees?
I would say I’m somewhat familiar with the Alberta Education Act, particularly the sections that apply to public schools. I understand the key responsibilities and boundaries it outlines, and I feel confident that I could interpret and apply it appropriately in practice.
I recognize that a trustee’s role is one of governance, not operations, focusing on setting direction and ensuring accountability rather than managing day-to-day activities. Trustees work collectively as a board, engaging with families, students, and the broader community to ensure that local voices are represented at the board table.
I also understand that the superintendent is the board’s sole employee, and that the relationship with the superintendent is central to effective governance. Trustees are responsible for developing and reviewing policies that reflect the needs of our community and schools, and for ensuring alignment with both legislation and the division’s values.
Harvard: What support will you offer the Superintendent in implementing the board’s strategic direction?
I really love this question, because much of my career has focused on supporting leaders and adapting to their needs. While it may sound simple, my honest answer is: however the Superintendent best needs it.
If elected, I would work, alongside the rest of the board, to understand the Superintendent’s vision, leadership style, and definition of support. If she prefers more autonomy, I will advocate for a hands-off approach that empowers her to lead confidently while still being available when needed. If she values more direct guidance or collaboration, I will work with the board to provide that in a constructive and respectful way.
At the core, I believe that alignment and clarity are key. When the board and Superintendent share a clear understanding of the strategic direction, we’re better positioned to achieve our goals and navigate any challenges that arise. Building a relationship grounded in trust, transparency, and shared purpose is the best way to ensure success.
Harvard: Do you have children in the system, and how have their experiences influenced your perspective?
Yes, I do. I have two daughters: one in a public elementary school and the other in a public high school. We’ve had wonderful experiences with compassionate, caring educators and administrators who have supported our family over the years.
At the same time, being a parent in the system has given me a firsthand understanding of some of the challenges schools are facing, particularly around classroom overcrowding. Even though my own children don’t have complex needs, we can still see how these pressures impact both students and teachers.
I have a great deal of empathy for families of children with diverse needs and for educators who are doing their best within limited resources. Through my sister’s experience navigating the school system with my nephew, I’ve seen how important it is that we continue strengthening supports so every student, and every teacher, can thrive.
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