Maple Ridge school trustee candidates invited to student-run debate

The Maple Ridge branch of Young Politicians of Canada (YPC) will host an all-candidates debate for SD42 school board trustee candidates at Garibaldi Secondary School. The discussion will focus on creating inclusive, equitable and supportive school environments. Organizer Patrick Knox said trustees need to engage with the students whose interests they would represent if elected. He said this is especially important because most candidates went to school in a very different world from the one students face today, which includes artificial intelligence, social media and cellphones.

Local high school students have prepared questions for the candidates. YPC is a nationwide, non-partisan organization focused on increasing civic literacy and ensuring youth are included in democratic processes. Its Maple Ridge branch includes high school students and recent graduates. Local high school student and YPC member Fadhel Hamadah will facilitate the debate. He said a student-hosted debate gives students a chance to take initiative and be responsible for the change they want to see.

Everyone is welcome, including high school students, families and school staff. The meeting will also be livestreamed on the Maple Ridge Young Politicians of Canada – BC YouTube channel. It is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at 24789 Dewdney Trunk Rd. in Maple Ridge. More information is available at https://www.facebook.com/YPCMapleRidge/.