Endorsements - Community First

Endorsements

“As a CUPE member, Jalen already has a proven record of providing the public services New Westminster citizens and families rely on. I know he will fight for improved education resources for our kids, and more public funding for our schools. I’m happy to recommend him for New Westminster School Board.” Karen Ranalletta President, CUPE BC

"I am endorsing Jalen Bachra because I trust him to make sure our schools are a safe and welcoming place for my son when he starts kindergarten this year. Jalen’s proven track record as an advocate, alongside his experience with New Westminster Schools and the New Westminster School Board, give my family confidence that he will work effectively with the current Board to ensure we have the right staffing supports in place to make sure every student has the opportunity to succeed, and we continue to build a culture where every student feels like they belong." James Richardson Parent, Massey Heights

“Jalen Bachra has a proven track record of delivering results for students and families in New Westminster. He has demonstrated leadership and brings solid ideas to make our schools even better. I support Jalen for New West School Board on February 3rd.” Peter Julian

“This election is about education. Now more than ever we need school trustees who are there for all of our kids, who are there to support education and make sure every child thrives and is supported. Jalen Bachra has experienced our school system in New West, and Jalen Bachra is the candidate who will bring the youthful energy and fresh perspective we need. I support Jalen, and I urge you to support him to on February 3.” Jaimie McEvoy City Councillor

"Jalen will bring a  much-needed youth perspective to the New Westminster School Board. He was an advocate for school issues even as a student in the district. His passion and compassion for students and learning make him my choice for the School Board." Chinu Das Former City Councillor

"Jalen is a remarkable young person who already shines brightly as a leader in our community. I'm looking forward to hearing his strong voice at school board meetings, bringing his keen understanding of the needs of students and working families to the table. He will be an excellent school trustee." Judy Darcy Former MLA and Minister

"Jalen's got my vote! Whether in school, work or community, Jalen has demonstrated a gift for bringing people together to meet challenges with thoughtful, positive service and leadership. His experience, energy and perspectives will add tremendous value to a Board working for all New West students, families, and staff. On Feb 3, get on the Bachra bus!" Mark Gifford Former Trustee and Chair New Westminster School Board

"Jalen is mature beyond his years. I really appreciate Jalen’s history of involvement in our community since he was a teen. He has a clear understanding of the issues that face students today.  He takes a proactive approach to problems and is passionate about standing up and getting involved in order to make a difference. I truly believe Jalen is the best candidate for the job as he will bring thoughtfulness, diversity and a youthful perspective to the Board. I am pleased to support Jalen and encourage everyone to vote for him." Nancy Kato Past President of Forget Me Not Adoption Reunions New West Pride Legacy Award Winner

“I’m excited to see Jalen Bachra on the ballot for school trustee, and happy to endorse him. He’s the kind of ‘next generation’ person we need on School Board, with a combination of youthful energy and perspective plus proven activism and accomplishments. This by-election is important, so make sure you get out and vote for Jalen. I know I will!” Tania Jarzebiak Labour Activist New West Quay resident

"Jalen brings a youthful and energetic perspective that will make him a great addition to the school board." Andy Ross Former Labour Council President Moody Park resident

"The role of School Trustee must be to passionately engage in the issues that affect our students, our teachers and support staff and our district. This must be done to bring the community into the decision making process. Jalen already has a history of involvement and has successfully worked to provide transportation for Queensborough students, something that New Westminster School Boards over the past 2 decades were unable to do. Jalen has already shown the community leadership that we need on the School Board. I am so pleased to see Jalen is running for School Trustee, I highly encourage everyone to vote for Jalen." Michael Ewen New Westminster School Trustee (1979 - 2018)

"I taught Jalen in Grade Two - he was an amazing person then and he is even more amazing now. Throughout high school Jalen took on many positions of leadership. As a recent graduate of NWSS, Jalen brings first hand knowledge of the current strengths and issues of the District.  Jalen is passionate, caring, thoughtful, engaged and motivated to do the work needed to make a positive impact in the role of School Trustee and to the District. I am so pleased to see Jalen is running for School Trustee, I highly encourage everyone to vote for Jalen." Leanne Ewen Teacher

“I’ve seen Jalen working hard for our community since he was in school. He’s smart, he brings people together and he has already made a difference for Queensborough. Let’s get him on school board!” MLA, Richmond-Queensborough Parliamentary Secretary for Environment

"Jalen Bachra will bring a unique perspective to our school board. As a recent graduate from New Westminster, he will bring a student-focused approach to school board deliberations along with a commitment to the inclusion of students with special needs. Jalen has my full support." Dawn Black Former Member of Parliament and MLA

"New West schools can benefit greatly from a young, smart, creative person like Jalen Bachra as a Trustee. He is a proven leader and advocate for students." Bill Harper Retired City Councillor

"Jalen is a hard working ambitious young person, his proven leadership qualities and compassion for public education will serve to enhance School District 40 Board of Education's initiatives. When elected he will inspire young adults from working-class families that they don't have to step back from politics to allow so-called elites or anyone in fact to run for office." Marcel Marsolais Past President, CUPE 409

"I am thrilled to endorse Jalen Bachra for the New West School Board election. His passion, dedication, and youth perspective make him an excellent choice. Jalen understands our schools' challenges and has the insight to drive positive change. He will champion our students' needs and contribute to the success of our educational community. Join me in supporting Jalen's candidacy for the school board." Bereket Kebede Community organizer

"Jalen Bachra is an impressive, knowledgeable, passionate young leader. He has years of experience working with kids and families in New West. He brings a strong voice and perspective we need at our board table as we tackle the important challenges ahead." Maya Russell Chair New Westminster School Board

“I can’t think of a more appropriate voice to have at the table than someone who was actually in the K to 12 system so recently! And who contributed through his activism as a student to some of the big issues that we’re grappling with—like transportation from Queensborough to the high school. Jalen will bring strong, principled, thoughtful leadership to the school board.” Jennifer Whiteside MLA, New Westminster Minister of Mental Health and Addictions

"I can’t wait for Jalen to join us on the New Westminster School Board! He is passionate about public service and will bring a principled, youthful perspective to our team that is fighting every day for strong, equitable public education in our community." Cheryl Sluis Vice-Chair New Westminster School Board

"The NWDLC is pleased to endorse Jalen Bachra for New Westminster School Board in the by-election on February 3. His energy, insights and previous experience as a student representative will be a valuable addition to the Board. We look forward to his leadership on our shared values of inclusive, accessible schools with strong student and staff supports." Janet Andrews Secretary-Treasurer New Westminster & District Labour Council