Elections

This page will be updated regularly with information and dates.

The next election will take place November 13, 2024.

There are 23 trustee candidates vying for seven at-large positions in Saskatoon and two candidates seeking election in Subdivision 1 (rural areas around Saskatoon, including Martensville and Warman). Candidate profiles are below. Candidates in Subdivisions 2 (Humboldt) and 3 (Biggar) have been acclaimed.

Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools' Board of Education consists of 10 elected trustees. Seven at-large trustees represent Saskatoon, and one trustee represents each of our three subdivisions: rural areas around Saskatoon, including Martensville and Warman (Subdivision 1); Humboldt (Subdivision 2); and Biggar (Subdivision 3).

A Chair and Vice-Chair are chosen from among the 10 trustees.

Voter Information

Saskatoon

Voting options and poll locations

The City of Saskatoon has an online portal for the registered voters list and mail-in ballot application.

Voters Registration Portal: saskatoon.ca/voterlookup
Mail-in Ballot Application: saskatoon.ca/votebymail

Through the online voter registration portal, eligible voters can:

• lookup their information on the list;
• correct/update their information to make sure it is current;
• self-register if their name is not on the list.

The voter data is shared by from Elections Saskatchewan through the existing Information Sharing Agreement with the Chief Electoral Officer of Saskatchewan and the City.

Separate school division voters are encouraged to update their school support to separate school. (This is different than your property tax designation.) Self-registering and updating your information ahead of time makes voting faster and reduces the wait times at the polls. Voters can also check and update their information by:

• phone: 306-657-8683;
• email: elections@saskatoon.ca
• in-person at the election office: 200-145 1st Ave N

Subdivision 1 (rural areas around Saskatoon, including Martensville and Warman):

Advance Polls
View Notice of Advance Poll

Warman: Brian King Centre, 202 8th Avenue North; October 30, November 6 and November 7 at 3 – 8 p.m.

Martensville: Martensville City Hall, 37 Centennial Drive South; November 2 at 1 – 5 p.m.; November 6 at 3 – 8 p.m.; November 9 at 1 – 5 p.m.

Aberdeen: Aberdeen Town Office, 401C Main Street North; November 6 at 4 – 8 p.m.

Viscount: Viscount Village Office, 220 Amherst Avenue; October 30 at 6 – 8 p.m.; Second Date Added: Monday, November 4, 2024, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Clavet: Clavet Community Hall, #2 Second Avenue; November 5 at 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

South Corman Park: South Corman Park School, 1760 Baker Road, Casa Rio, SK; November 2 at 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Vonda: Vonda Town Office, 204 Main Street; November 2 at 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Polls
View Notice of Poll

Voting for Subdivision 1 will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following polling places:

Warman: Brian King Centre, 208 8th Avenue North

Martensville: North Ridge Centennial Community Centre, 901 - 3rd Street North

Aberdeen: Aberdeen Town Office, 401C Main Street North

Viscount: Viscount Village Office, 220 Amherst Avenue

Clavet: Clavet Community Hall, #2 Second Avenue

South Corman Park: South Corman Park School, 1760 Baker Road, Casa Rio, SK

Vonda: Vonda Town Office, 204 Main Street

Candidates Profiles

Content will be updated as information is received. Candidate information for Subdivision 1 is below Saskatoon (scroll down).

All candidates were invited to submit a brief profile of up to 150 words, and provide a photograph and contact information. Information is published here as submitted. Profiles have not been edited for content, spelling or grammar.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon candidates are listed here in alphabetical order (by last name). The order that candidates will appear on the ballot will be different, as determined by a blind draw conducted by the Returning Officer on October 9, in accordance with subsection 7.1(3) of The Election Bylaw.

J.R. (Ron) Boechler

Hello, I am your Vice Chair of the Board of Education. I proudly serve our school communities. It is an honour to have your support. My wife and I are blessed with four great kids, all graduates of GSCS. My passion for Catholic Education stems from my faith and family. I want the best for all students of GSCS. I believe all parents want a solid foundation of faith and knowledge for their kids.

Our Board:

• Believes and supports parents are the primary educators
• Encourages every student and staff to grow their faith and mind
• Respects we are all not the same but we all have the right to be treated the same
• Advocates for improved funding
• Engages and listens to our school communities

Challenges that I feel we have:

• Improving teacher student ratios and classroom supports
• Capping school size to improve access, safety and sense of community
• Ensuring that our constitutional rights are recognized and respected

It is hard work and with your support we will continue to make progress.

Email: Ron@vote2024.ca
Phone: (306) 249-5658
Website:
Facebook
Instagram: @j.r.boechler
X: @JRBoechler

Diane Boyko

As an active member of the Ukr. Catholic Cathedral of St. George, I have proudly served our community on the GSCS Board for 6 terms, including 17 years as Chair. It has been my privilege to assist in the consultations, discussions and decisions that have shaped our division’s direction. 

My pledge is to continue to advocate for parental choice for Catholic Education, prioritize the faith journey and educational excellence of students and staff, lobby government for adequate supports and capitol projects for our growing and diverse student population, and strengthen our Truth and Reconciliation journey. I will continue using my networks to pro-actively represent GSCS to our greater community.

There is much more to do. I offer my passion and expertise to promote a division that develops strong, spiritual and educated individuals, immersed in Christ’s teachings, who with guidance of teachers and staff, graduate to become leaders in our community. I ask for your prayers and support.

Email: dianeboyko@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 382-2832

Hudson Byblow

Hudson began teaching K-12 in 2007, and by 2013 was travelling as a Catholic speaker, author, and consultant. He's given over 100 presentations/interviews on trauma-informed approaches to pastoral care and education (often through the lens of testimony) in the USA, Canada, and even Europe. Over 50 of his articles have been published by faithful Catholic organizations, and he's worked on several books by very well-known Catholic authors.

Hudson's main areas of focus are student/staff spiritual well-being and aspects of faith development. To that end, Hudson is committed to upholding the Church's teachings as found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church as promulgated by Pope St. John Paul II (incl. subsequent authorized modifications). Hudson upholds the Church's position that although the Catechism is not an infallible book, and though there are varying levels of authority among Catholic documents, the compendium of teachings described in that particular Catechism are authoritative.

Email: HudsonGSCS24@hotmail.com
Website: https://hudsonbyblow.com
Facebook

Erik Carey

I was raised in the Catholic school system and later attended St. Thomas More College and the College of Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan, where I earned degrees in Political Studies and Agribusiness. During my time at university, I was a core team member with Catholic Christian Outreach, which deepened my faith and commitment to service.

I’ve had the privilege of working for several agricultural companies and the House of Commons, and I currently serve in the Canadian Army Reserve. Additionally, I have volunteered on various boards in different capacities. These experiences have shaped my dedication to community and public service.

I am a parishioner at both St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral and Our Lady of Lourdes parish, and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1517. My commitment to my faith and to Catholic education has inspired me to run for Catholic school board trustee, where I hope to help foster a strong values-based education for all students.

Email: erik.carey@outlook.com
Facebook

Dana A. Case

God is so Good. It is with incredible excitement that I am, once again, seeking your support and prayers as I run for a second term as a Trustee for the Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Board in the upcoming civic election. My Catholic Faith means everything to me, and it has been a great privilege to serve my community as a Trustee.

My first term taught me so much about the position, and I am looking forward to the opportunity to show you all what we can achieve together in the next term. I will continue to prioritize our students above everything else, this includes every professional who contributes to their success. Mental Health (30 years) is my life's work and I will continue to advocate for school based mental health programs and supports that are responsive and holistic. 

I am incredibly dedicated to Catholic Education and am confident that together we can continue to foster a positive and impactful atmosphere for our children to learn and grow in their Faith.

Phone: (306) 230-3171
Facebook
Instagram: @dana.a.case

Michelle Christopher

After obtaining degrees in both Sociology and Law at the University of Saskatchewan, Michelle worked as a private practice lawyer before accepting a job with the Federal Department of Justice. Although she is now retired from the practice of law, Michelle remains keenly interested in the legal system and the right of all citizens to be treated fairly under the law.

Michelle is a married mother to four adult children who all attended Saskatoon Catholic Schools. When her children were young, Michelle spent many hours inside their schools serving as the library mom and helping with extracurricular activities and field trips. 

Michelle is a strong advocate for students with learning disabilities/special needs and has invested a considerable amount of time fighting for the right of all children to receive the help and resources they need to succeed. She believes that every child deserves a high quality education and wants to do her part to ensure the ongoing success of GSCS.

Email: MichelleGSCS2024@gmail.com
Facebook

Tanya Clarke

My husband Patrick and I have three amazing kiddos, all of whom have been, or currently are, students within GSCS.

As a family, we have navigated the education system having neurodivergent kiddos with complex needs. Like many parents, we understand what it’s like to advocate and work towards solutions where our children will thrive as individuals and students. Additionally, I have the privilege of serving St Volodymyr school CSCC as treasurer and Bishop Murray CSCC as a member at large.

Professionally, I served the Diocese of Saskatoon over a 10-year period in financial administration which afforded me opportunities to work indirectly with GSCS.

I have experienced the very best that the Church and our Catholic schools have to offer as well as opportunities for improvement.

I am very grateful for the possibility to serve as trustee with Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools and I humbly ask for your support.

Email: tanyapatriciaclarke@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 281-3329
Facebook
Instagram @imperfect.and.worthy

Kate Day (nee McGettigan)

I am a retired teacher, having spent most of my career supporting students special needs in our GSCS High Schools. 

I was honoured to receive a "Champion for Human Rights" recognition for that work from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.

Social justice is very dear to my heart, and is, I believe, the core of Catholic Education. GSCS excels at equity, and recognizing the dignity of all of the students we serve. My mission is to celebrate, preserve and expand that welcoming and loving core.

I will be present in our schools to celebrate the great work of our schools’ staff, and will be listening to their challenges. Advocating for adequate funding and supports for our schools will be an important part of my role. I will work to ensure that the staff, students and families are the centre of my mission. Together we are stronger.

Please consider giving me your support. Vote for a Better Day! Thank you!

Email: vote4abetterDay@gmail.com
Facebook

Brett Florizone

As a dedicated parent of two school-aged children, as well as the President of a Catholic School Council Committee (CSCC), I bring a strong commitment towards fostering a faith-centered, nurturing educational environment. 

Ultimately, my goal as a Catholic School Board Trustee is to support the board in creating enriching experiences that align with our mission of developing responsible, and faith-filled students.

Accompanying my experience of enhancing parent involvement and supporting student success (on the CSCC), I have a passion for community engagement and collaboration and believe that my goal will be better achieved by working together. 

My time on the CSCC has equipped me with valuable insights into the needs and aspirations of both families and educators, allowing me to advocate effectively for our children’s education.

As your Trustee, I am committed to promoting the integration of Catholic values into our curriculum while ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Email: florizone2024@gmail.com

Owen Fortosky

Owen was born and raised in Saskatoon and grew up attending Catholic Schools – as did his partner, Deb, and their three sons. He worked in Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools for over 30 years, 20 as an administrator – including being named one of Canada’s top principals in 2014. His experience in the education system has given him not only insight into how schools are operated but a perspective from the front lines of a school division as it has evolved. Owen received his B.Ed in Special Education from the UofS and a Masters degree in Education Policy and Management from Harvard University. He served on Saskatoon’s City Council from 2000-2006 and has a keen understanding of the political environment. Owen has been blessed to provide care for his grandson. This “Grandpa Daycare” experience has reinforced Owen’s desire that his grandson and all children deserve to be welcomed in a school division that fosters and exemplifies academic excellence, justice, peace and reconciliation.

Email: electowenfortosky@gmail.com
Facebook

Jacqueline Gress

No profile submitted.

Kim Hoffart

After a wonderful 31 year career in education as a teacher and administrator, I have decided to run for school board trustee in the Separate School system. I spent 26 of my 31 years with Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools. I also spent 3 years in the Regina Catholic School system, 1 year in Australia and 2 years in an Alberta School system. I believe that my career with GSCS and my involvement as a senior administrator for the last 16 years has allowed me to be very aware of the challenges facing the school district, administrators and classroom teachers. I will advocate for classroom complexity and under funding as this is a large reason for teacher burn-out, frustration and violence in schools. Catholic education is not just for Catholics. We must remain focused on being open to anyone who seeks Catholic faith-based education for their children. Part of being inclusive is breaking down outdated beliefs in a changing society. I commit to advocating for these changes if elected.

Email: hoffartkim1969@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 241-6640

Tim Jelinski

As a trustee, I have witnessed nurturing of academic excellence, and the outstanding dedication and generosity of our school division’s staff. As a former teacher, principal, and director of education in Catholic schools, I have a deep understanding and appreciation of Catholic education.

To best serve our students, I commit to continuing to advance quality Catholic education in a faith-based environment. I will advocate for sustainable funding to address class size and complexity, equitable opportunities for all students, sufficient facilities, and classroom supports and resources.

With my knowledge, experience, and unwavering commitment, I pledge to work on your behalf for our students, and to protect and strengthen Catholic education.

Email: jelinskitim@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 649-0423

Chelsea Jukes (August)

Chelsea Jukes August, a dynamic Human Resources leader with over 15 years’ experience in the local trucking industry, is passionate about our community and dedicated to service. As a former executive member of the Westview Heights Community Association and current Treasurer of the École St. Peter School CSCC and Renegade Flames hockey team, Chelsea has consistently demonstrated her commitment to fostering a vibrant community. A proud parent of four children enrolled in GSCS—from kindergarten to grade ten—Chelsea understands the challenges families face. Parishioners of St. Philip Neri Parish, she and her husband Tim continue to celebrate their children’s milestones in faith, strengthening Chelsea’s resolve to support their faith-based educational journey. With a bachelor’s degree in Commerce from USask and Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant license, Chelsea combines professional expertise with a genuine commitment to delivering sensible, effective solutions for our schools.

Email: trusteechelsea@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 203-4452
Facebook
Instagram: @trusteechelsea
X: @trusteechelsea

Shane Keating

Teaching 31 years in Saskatchewan and Alberta, 19 with Calgary Catholic and 12 as school administrator, has given great insight and the ability, knowledge, and confidence to be a strong advocate for a well-funded Catholic School Division. My priority would be to ensure and maintain our distinctive Catholic Division. To complement my education career, I was drawn to the Municipal Government and spent 11 years as Calgary City Councillor. Interacting with all levels of Government in Canada has expanded my personal growth and multitude of life experiences. My wife and I returned home in 2018 and are now attending St. Anne’s parish. I want to continue to serve my Catholic community bringing vast experience allowing great stewardship for Catholic Education. I was raised in Estevan, received a B.ED. from U. of Regina and a M.ED. from U. of Calgary. 

Thank you for reading my profile, God Bless.

Email: shanekeating4trusteegscs@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 291-9111
Facebook

Richard Kolla

Richard Kolla is a husband and father of six. An alumni of GSCS with children currently attending school. He owns both an IT/Handyman business and a non-profit organization advocating for Western Canada. 

Previously, Richard was a young adult missionary working with youth, which deepened his compassion for others and dedication to mentorship. He is an active member of St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral, has served on its parish council, and is a former KofC Council Executive.

Richard's family has long been involved in education, with both his late grandfather, Alphonse Kirzinger, and late great uncle, Joe Kammermayer, serving in prominent leadership roles with SSBA & GSCS. Their commitment to education has deeply influenced Richard’s own sense of duty and responsibility to make a positive difference in our school system. 

Richard believes that strong leadership, rooted in compassion, is essential for shaping the future of education. He hopes he can count on your vote as a Trustee.

Email: rkgscs@pm.me
Phone: (306) 912-9255
Website: https://kollakorner.com/

Erin Lockert

Erin Lockert is a dedicated healthcare professional deeply committed to her faith and her community. She views Catholic education as a cherished gift and legacy. Her desire to serve is rooted in over 12 years of active involvement with our school community councils. As a mother of six, she advocates for academic excellence that reflects a strong Catholic worldview. Erin believes our unique identity in Christ sets Catholic education apart — envisioning our schools as places for genuine encounters with Jesus. By promoting collaboration among parents, educators, and clergy, she seeks to create a community that fosters moral development and inspires youth to embody Christ's teachings. Her goal is to cultivate an enriching educational and spiritual environment that honors our Catholic tradition and prepares students for a life of faith and service, guided by their relationship with Jesus.

Email: contact@erinfortrustee.com
Website: https://erinfortrustee.com

Myron Luczka

No profile submitted.

Annette Mireau

Being a wife, mother and grandmother is my greatest joy. I also enjoyed my 37-year career as a registered nurse at both City Hospital and Saint Paul’s Hospital. Currently, I find fulfilment in my role as a volunteer with vulnerable families through the Hands at Work organization.

I truly believe in the vision of the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, which is for the staff and students to be “rooted in faith, growing in knowledge and reaching out to transform the world”. If elected, I will work alongside my fellow trustees to make this vision a reality for the greater glory of God.

Email: amireau07@gmail.com

Sandra Molyneux

My husband & I have called Saskatoon home for 18 years, it has been the perfect place to raise our family. I have 4 amazing kids & I have been part of the Catholic School community for the last 14 years, with 7 more years to go! I have worked as a public servant for over 20 years and my education background is working with youth at risk. I am an active parishioner at my parish and faith is important to me. I am a first generation Canadian and my Portuguese heritage & upbringing has shaped me into the person I am today. I have been privileged to walk alongside Indigenous friends, colleagues & mentors, since my teens, in our shared journey towards truth & reconciliation. I hope to humbly serve the community I have grown to love as a Separate School Board Trustee.

Email: sandra@sandratrustee.com
Website: https://sandratrustee.com 

Eric Olauson

Eric Olauson has been a member of Holy Family Parish for over 50 years and an active 4th Degree member of Knights of Columbus Council 8215. Eric comes from a family of educators-his father Mel was a principal and his mother Joan a teacher for over 30 years in GSCS. Eric’s leadership has encompassed his entire life. Currently he is an executive with the TFI International Group. Eric served as the MLA for Saskatoon University from 2016-2020. He was Government Caucus Chair, Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport among other duties. From 2012-2016 Eric served as the Saskatoon City Councilor for Ward 8 where he was instrumental in the creation of the Saskatoon North Partnership for Growth. Eric is currently serving as Chair of Possibilities Recovery Center, Co-Chair at the Abilities in Me program and a member of the Prairieland Park Board. Eric is married to Anna Schell-a teacher. They have 3 daughters and 1 son-all who have been blessed with Catholic education.

Email: eric.olauson@gmail.com
Facebook

Mike St. Amand

I am a retired businessperson from Prince Albert who moved with my wife to Saskatoon in 2021. We are happy to call St. Philip Neri our parish. I began my service as a member of the School Community Council where our children attended. This led me to become a School Trustee from 2003 until 2016.While on the Board I served as Vice Chairperson. During my time as Trustee I served in the executive positions of Vice President & President for the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association , I held the same positions for the Canadian Catholic School Trustees Association. I would like to offer my past experience and the gift of working and learning from fellow trustees to support the students and staff of Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.

Email: mikhab10@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 961-2644

Sharon Zakreski-Werbicki

Sharon, a proponent of lifelong learning and faith-based education, will continue to apply her leadership and communication abilities as a Trustee for the GSCS.

As a Trustee, she has gained insight into the intricate challenges posed by periods of expansion, budgetary constraints, and ongoing transformation. Her role as a representative of parents and children, and commitment to guarantee the availability of Catholic education for current and future generations, is of utmost significance. 

The attainment of a Bachelor's Degree in Education, a Business Administration Certificate, and Certification in Choice Theory/Reality Therapy & Lead Management has equipped her with a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge crucial for the role enabling informed decisions that benefit Catholic education. 

Sharon's commitment and significant contribution to her profession are evident in her over 30 years of teaching experience and active participation in various roles within community organizations.

Email: sharon.zakreskiwerbicki@gmail.com
Phone: (306) 657-8683

Subdivision 1 (rural areas around Saskatoon, including Martensville and Warman):

Michael Raney

I am blessed with a wonderful wife and four beautiful children. Since my reception into the Catholic faith in 2019, we have attended St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral. There I served as Director of Music for over three years.

Before that, my background was in construction project planning and supervision. While the areas of music and construction are quite different, I feel the broad experience allows for a greater appreciation of the needs of a diverse community such as our Catholic Schools.

In addition, I serve on the K of C Council 1517 as Financial Secretary and am on the board of the George Mackie Foundation whose mandate is to provide support for youth activities and education in the province.

As your trustee I will advocate for:

• Our Catholic faith as the centre of our school division
• Proper support for students and teachers in the classrooms
• Direct accountability to families

Email: Michael.raney@gmail.com

Wayne Stus

I am a trustee on the GSCS Board of Education. I played a key role in the development of Rural Catholic School Board divisions. Also served during construction of recent school builds including Martensville and Warman, enhancing Catholic educational opportunities for families in these communities.

As a parishioner at the Cathedral of the Holy Family and member of the Knights of Columbus, I uphold the values of faith and service. I am married with four adult children and nine grandchildren who inspire my commitment to our faith community.

With a background in construction, I bring a unique perspective to problem solving and project management. I believe that a commitment to student achievement and success is essentially rooted in the mission of God and Catholic teachings. I encourage support for my continuing work in Catholic education advocating for schools that provide safe centers of learning for all.

Phone: 306-477-0086
Email: wayne.stus@gmail.com
Facebook
Instagram: @waynestus

Subdivision 2 (Humboldt):

Florian Possberg (acclaimed)
View Notice of Abandonment of Poll

Subdivision 3 (Biggar):

Bonita Elliott (acclaimed)
View Notice of Abandonment of Poll

About school board trustees:

Catholic school board trustees serve an important role to help maintain the uniqueness of Catholic education and keep Christ as the heart and soul of each of our school communities.

Download Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools' Trustee 2024 Candidate Information package to learn more about the role of Catholic Board of Education trustees and becoming a candidate.

Download Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association's Called to Serve document.

Learn more about Board of Education elections from Saskatchewan School Boards Association.

Download the City of Saskatoon's Candidate Guide

Who is eligible to become a Catholic board trustee?

A person is eligible to be nominated as a candidate for and to hold office as a Board member if he/she:

• is a voter of the school division on the day of the election;
• is a Canadian citizen at the time he/she submits nomination papers;
• has resided in the school division for at least three consecutive months immediately preceding the date on which nominations papers are submitted;
• has resided in Saskatchewan for at least six consecutive months immediately preceding the date on which nomination papers are submitted;
• be Catholic (any Catholic rite, such as Roman, Ukrainian, Chaldean, etc., that recognizes the pope as leader of the church);
• have all people signing the nomination paper be Catholic.

Section 43(3) of The Local Government Election Act, 2015 acknowledges that an employee of the Board of Education may seek nomination and election to the Board if the employee has first obtained a leave of absence in accordance with s. 2-54(1)(a) of The Saskatchewan Employment Act. If that employee is elected to be a Board trustee, s. 43(4) of The Local Government Elections Act deems the employee to have to have resigned from the position of employment on the day before the day on which he/she is declared elected unless for any reason the results of the election are overturned.