Wendy Procter

Oct 15, 2014

Algonguin Lakeshore Catholic School Board Trustee

Wendy Procter – 15 years on the job

In 1999, Wendy Procter of Sharbot Lake was appointed by the Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board (ALCDSB) to fill a vacancy. She has since run for the position four times and each time she was acclaimed.

This time, however, there will be a vote, and this provides her an opportunity to talk about her history with the board and her view of the job of trustee.

“Catholic education has always been an important part of my life. I really care about it, and my commitment hasn't wavered over the years,” she said.

She first became involved with the board in the early 1990s when she was working with others to found St. James Major Catholic School in Sharbot Lake, which opened in 1992.

As trustee, ensuring busing for high school students in the southern half of Frontenac County to Regiopolis in Kingston, and from the northern portion of the county to St. John's High School in Perth, even though it is a neighbouring board, has been a priority.

“My main focus is to make sure that Catholic students in our area can attend a Catholic school,” she said.

Most of the work of trustees is on developing policies and directives which guide the board; to focus on student achievement, with what needs to be done board-wide, and to bring the concerns of their schools and communities to the board.

“Since the board covers a vast area, every trustee has their own diverse issues. The board listens and acts on the information the trustees bring forward” she said.

She enjoys the meetings and feels it is important work that Catholic schools do, in both urban and rural areas.

When asked about the future of Catholic education she said, “This question has been asked since the system was formed over 160 years ago. History has shown that Catholic schools provide quality education and academic excellence. Over the next four years I intend to continue to advocate for quality Catholic education in our rural communities.”