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New Maple Ridge father Aidan Allenbuckle seeks school trustee seat, pledging pragmatic approach
Aidan Allenbuckle says he would advocate for flexible learning options, financial sustainability and safe, welcoming schools if elected trustee.
New Maple Ridge father Aidan Allenbuckle is seeking election as a school trustee, saying he wants to bring a calm, steady and pragmatic voice to the board. He said he is not running because he is dissatisfied with the school district or over a single issue, but because he cares about the community’s direction and wants the district to remain strong, modern and well supported for current and future students.
Allenbuckle holds an honours Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from Kwantlen Polytechnic University, a Certificate of AI Ethics from the London School of Economics and a Birth and Postpartum Doula Certificate from Douglas College. His work has included roles as a research associate, systems and project manager, crisis-line call operator, constituency assistant, compliance officer in Sydney, Australia, and most recently a Métis health experience advocate.
He said students require different forms of support, with some thriving in traditional classrooms while others need targeted help or alternative, hands-on learning spaces. Allenbuckle said his own ADHD went undiagnosed until adulthood, giving him personal experience of a system that may not be designed for every learner.
Allenbuckle said trusteeship should centre on good governance, accountability and long-term vision rather than quick, flashy changes. He said his public-service career has prepared him to listen to underrepresented families, advocate within government, collaborate with others and manage complex projects within defined budgets.
If elected, he said he would work to keep SD42 financially sustainable, listen closely to educators and parents, and support safe, welcoming schools. He also pledged to advocate for accessible, flexible and non-traditional learning options, saying evidence-based leadership is needed to address challenges including social media, online misinformation and artificial intelligence. Municipal elections are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17.