Gillian Burnett has been a parent advocate in School District No. 57 (SD57) for more than 12 years and is now running for a seat as a trustee in the upcoming fall election.
She spent six years with the Nukko Lake Parent Advisory Council, 11 of the last 12 years on the District Parent Advisory Council and held the position of Treasurer on the BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils from 2018 to 2021.
She said she is passionate about public education in B.C. and still has more to offer.
Burnett holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and has worked as a controller for three companies servicing the forest industry.
“I'm no stranger to financial statements and have served on the SD57 Expanded Committee of the Whole for Budget Development as a DPAC representative for six of the last seven years,” said Burnett.
“I've been a representative on many district committees and working groups and fully understand the commitment necessary to fulfill the role of Trustee.”
Burnett said she thinks SD57 is facing some tough decisions in the future over catchments, budgetary issues, and student well-being and achievement results.
“One of my greatest strengths is as a listener and a learner. I hope to hear from those most affected by decisions and help guide the district in a healthy direction through thoughtful examination of the options available. I will remain a strong advocate for students, families, and staff of SD57.”
Burnett said she has a proven record of advocating for students of SD57 and both understands and believes in the public education system to provide equitable opportunities for all learners.
“My character can be easily seen in the many issues I've championed in the past; from catchment and capacity issues to transportation and inclusive education, I've rolled up my sleeves, learned as much as I could and sought to find solutions that worked for the betterment of our district,” added Burnett.
Burnett moved to Prince George back in 1998, but considers the city her home as it’s the place where she met her husband and raised her family.
Her daughter graduated from grade 12 last year and she has a son in grade 11 at Shas Ti Kelly Road Secondary school.
Burnett noted that she lives just outside of the city limits of Prince George in the Regional District of Fraser Fort George and enjoys spending her free time enjoying the many lakes in the area for recreation and reflection.
On Oct. 15 voters will have to elect five trustees to represent Prince George on the board of education.
