Burlington resident chosen to lead Halton public school board

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Published November 17, 2023 at 10:20 am

A lifelong Burlington resident is the new chair of the Halton District School Board (HDSB).

Amy Collard, who has served as Ward 5 trustee since 2010, was elected by her fellow trustees at this week’s Board meeting.

“I am humbled by the faith the Board of Trustees has in me, to guide them through the development of our new multi-year plan,” said Collard upon her selection. “I am looking forward to working more closely with the senior administrative team and the Board of Trustees to provide opportunities for the excellence of the HDSB to shine!”

She said one of her goals is to make sure the work of the Board is being heard by families and to invite them into the decision-making process to shape the direction of public education in Halton. There are more than 60,000 students enrolled in schools in the HDSB.

Collard follows Margo Shuttleworth who served as chair for the past two years.

A long-time advocate for public education, prior to her election Collard served on the board’s Special Education Advisory Committee (Vice Chair 2007, Chair 2008-2010), Parent Involvement Steering Committee (Inception-2009, Inaugural PIC Conference Co-Chair 2008) and Information Technology for Learners Committee (2007-2009).

As a student, she attended Rolling Meadows Public School and M.M. Robinson High School.

She has also volunteered with Joseph Brant Hospital, Big Sisters and St Christopher’s Church.

As chair, Collard will preside over all meetings of the board and act as the spokesperson for trustees on issues about education.

Trustees get paid for serving on the board — an honorarium — and as chair Collard will receive $24,770 a year.

Oakville trustee Joanna Oliver was elected vice-chair of the Board at the meeting.

 

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