Safety Takes Center Stage in Brandon School Division Byelection

Safety concerns are at the forefront of the campaign for the Ward 1 trustee seat in the Brandon School Division byelection. Candidate Michael Grantham, 57, highlighted the recent sword attack at École secondaire Neelin High School in June, which resulted in one student being injured. Grantham believes that ensuring students feel safe while attending school is of utmost importance.

In a race involving seven candidates, Grantham is competing against Laura Armitage, Bonnie-Lynn Mills, Shawna Mozdzen, Eren Oleson, Himanshu Shah, and Henry Sieklicki. He expressed his commitment to improving school safety by advocating for measures such as operational cameras, the presence of safety officers, and better-managed school zones.

“Our children’s safety is paramount,” Grantham stated. He proposed that educational assistants could also serve as safety officers to enhance security within schools. Grantham emphasized the need to slow down traffic in school zones and suggested making safety signs more visible, potentially by adding flashing lights.

Having moved to Brandon in Grade 3, Grantham has deep roots in the community. He currently manages an insurance brokerage and views his candidacy as a chance to contribute positively to the area.

On the contentious issue of book bans, Grantham has made his stance clear. He opposes the prohibition of books in school libraries, particularly in light of recent events in Alberta, where restrictions were placed on books containing explicit images of sexual acts. This move followed a previous ban that inadvertently included classic literature such as The Handmaid’s Tale and 1984.

In 2023, the Brandon School Division rejected a request to review books featuring LGBTQ themes, a decision that sparked considerable community debate and criticism. Grantham stated, “I’m not a fan of banning books — information and knowledge is power. For students who are curious or unsure about their identity, having access to these resources is crucial for inclusivity and understanding.”

Grantham also aims to ensure that the school division is welcoming to newcomers, particularly addressing potential language barriers. “Do we have the proper resources for the influx of new people that are coming in?” he questioned, highlighting the need for adequate support systems.

Despite the competitive field of candidates, Grantham expressed optimism about the election process. The byelection was prompted by the resignation of Blaine Foley in March, and the voting will take place on October 16, 2023, with advanced polling available on October 8 and October 11. The next general school board election is set for October 28, 2026, coinciding with the municipal elections.

As the byelection approaches, Grantham’s focus on safety and inclusivity reflects broader concerns within the community, making this race one to watch.