Harvard Media News reached out to each candidate running for office to ask a set of questions about the office for which they are running. The following is our Q&A with Fort McMurray Catholic School Trustee Candidate, Elliott Pierre. All responses are from the candidate or their agent and are unedited by Harvard Media News.
Harvard: What do you see as the key issues facing students and teachers today?
From careful listening to teachers, students, and parents, it’s clear that one of the biggest challenges in education today is managing large class sizes alongside increasingly complex student needs. Teachers are balancing many important responsibilities — each designed to enrich learning and engagement — but too often, the time and resources needed to meet these expectations are insufficient. As a result, students don’t always receive the individual attention they deserve, and teachers, despite giving their all, are left feeling as though their best efforts are never quite enough.
This challenge has become even more pressing with the implementation of the new curriculum. Both students and staff are working diligently to bridge learning gaps. Smaller class sizes, targeted interventions, and investment in staff wellness are not luxuries — they are essential conditions for effective teaching and learning. When educators are supported, students thrive.
Through my volunteer work in schools — supporting nutrition programs, helping with fundraising and events, and mentoring students in public speaking, entrepreneurship, and interview preparation — I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of our teachers and the determination of our students. These experiences have strengthened my belief that student success depends on a whole-community approach that nurtures every aspect of a child’s development: physical, emotional, spiritual, and academic. As a trustee, I am committed to advocating for the supports that make this possible.
Harvard: How familiar are you with the Alberta Education Act and the limitations placed on trustees?
I understand and fully respect the governance structure outlined in the Alberta Education Act. As trustees, we do not manage day-to-day operations, but instead serve in a governance role, working as a board to set policy, approve budgets, and ensure the school division remains aligned with its Catholic values and strategic goals.
My experience sitting on the Multicultural Association Board and advocating for families at both local and provincial levels has prepared me to work collaboratively, stay within scope, and bring forward real concerns respectfully and effectively.
Whether it’s advocating for French Immersion programming, extracurricular access for all students, classroom condition or faith-based learning, I take seriously the responsibility of being a faithful, informed, and community-connected voice at the board table.
Harvard: What support will you offer the Superintendent in implementing the board’s strategic direction?
I will support the Superintendent by working with fellow trustees to set clear, mission-aligned priorities, and by ensuring we have the resources, partnerships, and accountability tools to make those priorities a reality.
As a Human Resources professional, I bring experience in recruitment, retention, staff wellness and staff development —all critical to maintaining a strong Catholic education workforce in our region. As a contract instructor at Keyano College, I also understand the continuum of learning beyond K–12 and want to ensure students are well-prepared for life after graduation.
I’ve already worked to connect education with community in meaningful ways. I helped launch the Future Stars program, which partnered local businesses with the Elementary Athletics Association to fund equipment, facility rentals, and increase access for all students. I’ve also built authentic learning experiences by connecting classrooms to local businesses and community members. This is something I will continue to champion as trustee.
Harvard: Do you have children in the system, and how have their experiences influenced your perspective?
Yes, my son is currently enrolled in a Fort McMurray Catholic School, and his experience has been nothing short of a blessing. He’s a proud French Immersion learner, eager to soak up every opportunity. He loves the leadership roles he’s been given, the faith development that comes through the school’s relationship with the parish, and the chance to play school sports all year long.
His teachers have gone above and beyond, applying for grants to bring in hands-on science learning, volunteering their time to coach sports, and turning everyday school events into opportunities to build confidence, responsibility, and service. Our son is thriving because his school community sees his potential and nurtures it.
But we’ve also experienced first hand the need to advocate — the need for accessible learning supports and built-in accommodations to help our son and others. We’ve witnessed passionate teachers who want to do everything they can but are feeling stretched and burnt out. We know that up to date technology is required to help meet the accommodated needs of students also.
I would advocate endlessly to ensure that these kinds of learning supports, for both students and teachers, remain in place and are strengthened. Without them, the challenges facing education today can feel like mountains. With them, students can continue to thrive.
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