Trustee Candidate Champions Safety and Inclusivity in Schools

A significant focus on school safety is central to the campaign of Michael Grantham, a candidate for the Ward 1 trustee seat in the upcoming Brandon School Division byelection. Grantham, 57, highlighted concerns stemming from a recent sword attack at École secondaire Neelin High School in June, which resulted in one student sustaining injuries. He emphasized that ensuring students feel safe at school is crucial for their well-being and educational experience.

Grantham is one of seven candidates competing for the trustee position, alongside Laura Armitage, Bonnie-Lynn Mills, Shawna Mozdzen, Eren Oleson, Himanshu Shah, and Henry Sieklicki. As he campaigns, Grantham proposes several safety initiatives, including the implementation of working cameras, the presence of safety officers, and improved regulation of school zones. He suggested that educational assistants could serve as safety officers to enhance security within schools.

“We have to slow down going through school zones,” Grantham stated. “I understand that signs are posted, but should we make them more noticeable? Do we install flashing lights to alert drivers?” His focus on safety reflects a broader concern among parents and community members regarding the protection of children in educational environments.

Grantham, who has lived in Brandon since moving there in Grade 3, currently manages an insurance brokerage. He views this campaign as an opportunity to give back to his community. He expressed his strong opposition to the banning of books in school libraries, a topic that has sparked considerable debate in recent years.

The Alberta government recently instituted a ban on books featuring explicit depictions of sexual acts, a move that followed a previous attempt to ban literature based on written passages. This decision faced backlash for potentially including classic works such as The Handmaid’s Tale and 1984. In 2023, the Brandon School Division rejected a proposal to review books that address LGBTQ topics related to gender identity and sexual health, a decision that drew significant criticism from the community.

“I’m not a fan of banning books—information and knowledge is power,” Grantham asserted. “For kids who are curious or unsure about their identities, having access to these resources is essential. I’m all about inclusivity and making information available.”

Grantham also plans to ensure that the school division is welcoming to newcomers, particularly those who may face language barriers. He questioned whether the division is equipped with adequate resources to support the growing number of new residents in the community.

Surprised by the number of candidates in the race, Grantham expressed optimism about the election process, stating, “May the best candidate win.” The byelection was necessitated by the resignation of Blaine Foley in March. Voting will take place on October 16, 2023, with advance polling scheduled for October 8 and October 11. The next general school board election is set for October 28, 2026, coinciding with the municipal election.