Re-Elect
Tara Smith
For School Trustee
St. James-Assiniboia School Division
East Ward
About Me
As a mom, teacher, and experienced trustee, I am deeply passionate about education and helping all of our students succeed. This community is my home—my wife and I are long-time residents of St. James, and our two amazing children attend school right here in the division.
This fall marks my 20th year of classroom teaching, giving me a deep understanding of what our educators, students, and classrooms need to thrive.
For the past 4 years, it has been an absolute privilege to represent you as a trustee in the East Ward. During this term, I have worked tirelessly to listen to families, improve division-wide support, and strengthen our schools.
I currently serve as the Chair of the Board of Trustees, and was previously Vice-Chair. I have also actively served on key committees, including:
• Early Childhood Development Committee
• Safe and Caring Schools Committee
• Community Engagement Committee (Chair)
I humbly ask for your vote on October 28th so we can continue our momentum.
My Vision & Values
Inclusivity, Safety, and Respect
As a trustee, I will always advocate for every single student to feel safe, respected, and celebrated within our schools. A supportive and inclusive learning environment is the foundation of student success.
Right to Quality Education
I believe all students have a fundamental right to a high-quality education full of rich learning opportunities. Every child deserves access to modern, dynamic programming that prepares them for the future.
Diverse, Passions-First Programming
We must ensure SJASD remains a division of choice. I am committed to expanding diverse programs that include the arts, sports, technology, and STEM, ensuring a place where students can discover and actively nurture their unique passions.
Supporting Families & Communities
• Lowering Barriers: Standardized and lowered school fees across the division, keeping money in families' pockets.
• Dedicated Grant Writer: Created a specialized Grant Writer position to help individual schools and parent councils secure critical external funding.
• Outdoor Development: Offered an Outdoor Development Grant for all schools to improve play spaces and learning environments.
• Inclusive Language: Proudly supported the implementation of a new Michif Language Program in the division.
• Increased Community Voice: Created the Fall Budget Consultation and the Parent Council Information Night to increase transparency and listen to your feedback
During my time on the Board of Trustees, we have prioritized families, expanded student opportunities, and maintained strong fiscal responsibility. Here is what we have accomplished together:
CONTINUING THE WORK FOR OUR STUDENTS
A school division is stronger when it has leadership that understands the classroom, listens to parents, and works collaboratively to deliver results. With 20 years of teaching experience and 4 years of proven trustee leadership, I am ready to continue advocating for the families of the East Ward.
On October 28th, I respectfully ask for your vote to keep moving SJASD forward.
Innovative Programs & Governance
• New Vocational Opportunities: Launched dynamic, career-ready programs for our high school learners, including:
• Nail Technology at John Taylor Collegiate
• Applied Commerce Education at Westwood
Collegiate
• Applied Technology Program (Electronics,
Robotics, and Pre-Engineering) at Westwood
• Targeted Supports: Implemented a brand-new data tracking system to better understand student outcomes and deliver targeted support.
• Balanced Budgets: Successfully balanced 4 division budgets despite significant funding challenges, protecting classrooms first.