From Teacher to Trustee
From Teacher to Trustee
Hello! My name is Joe DeGagne, and I am excited to announce that I am running for Trustee with the Calgary Catholic School District in the upcoming by-election, representing Wards 4 and 7. The By-election Day is scheduled for January 31, 2025.
As Trustee, I will work to ensure that every student has access to the tools, resources, and programs they need to succeed academically and grow as individuals. I will advocate for equitable funding, greater mental health supports, and access to technology to bridge gaps in learning. This includes working with the province to address rising costs of education and promoting initiatives like targeted interventions for students with learning challenges. I will also amplify the voices of families, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed in decision-making processes.
Catholic education is rooted in faith, compassion, and service to others. I will uphold these values while respecting the cultural and religious diversity within our community. This means maintaining the integrity of Catholic teachings in curriculum while fostering inclusivity and understanding. I will also support initiatives that promote student engagement in faith-based service projects, ethical leadership, and spiritual growth. Recognizing that diversity is a strength, I will work to create a welcoming environment for all families who choose a Catholic education.
I will fight for increased provincial funding to reduce class sizes and support diverse learning needs, including specialized programs for students with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELL). By prioritizing diverse educational pathways such as fine arts, trades, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), we can prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. I will advocate for curriculum revisions that reflect the needs of today’s students and emphasize critical thinking, cultural understanding, and practical skills.
Overcrowding and limited resources are significant issues in Calgary’s growing neighborhoods. I will work with municipal leaders and the provincial government to ensure new schools are built in high-demand areas, like the city’s southeast and northwest quadrants. I’ll also push for additional support staff—such as educational assistants, psychologists, and counselors—so teachers can focus on teaching and students receive the help they need. Transparency in the allocation of resources will be a priority to ensure equitable distribution across all schools in the district.
Schools thrive when they work hand-in-hand with families, local organizations, and community leaders. I will foster collaboration with faith-based organizations, businesses, and nonprofits to bring additional resources into our schools. Initiatives like mentorship programs, partnerships with food security organizations, and access to extracurricular opportunities will ensure a supportive environment for all students. Strong ties between schools and their communities also help promote a shared sense of responsibility for education.
As a passionate advocate for quality education and a long-time member of the Edgemont community, I ask for your support in my candidacy for school trustee. With 35 years of experience as an educator and administrator, I’m committed to improving the educational experience for all students. These experiences have fueled my commitment to ensuring every child has access to the resources and support they need to succeed. My Catholic background began as the seventh child of eight in a French Canadian family. My parents were devote Catholics who attended mass on Sundays . I attended French Catholic Schools and still remember my first communion wearing a white suit with my entire Grade one class. I’ve been happily married to my wife for almost 40 years, and together, we’ve built a strong foundation in this community, which continues to inspire my dedication to service.
I believe our students deserve better. Better resources, better opportunities, and better support. Overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resource allocation, and a shortage of support staff are challenges I am dedicated to addressing, if elected. Raised as a Calgary Catholic student, having taught in Catholic schools, and sending my own children through Calgary Catholic, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
When I began my career, I thought I was ready to make my mark in education. My first placement as a French immersion teacher in Cochrane was humbling. The principal welcomed me and showed me to my classroom. I brought in my one box containing my lunch and briefcase and began my journey. By the time I retired, I had nearly 30 boxes—none containing lunch—a testament to the growth and learning that had occurred along the way.
I have a strong background in education that has honed my skills in leadership, communication, and decision-making. My academic credentials include a Master of Arts in Educational Administration, Curriculum, and Instruction from Gonzaga University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary, and the Religious Education Administration Program from St. Mary’s University College in Calgary. With 35 years of experience, 10 years of postgraduate education, and numerous professional development opportunities these qualifications have provided me with a foundation in both public (Rockyview School Division) and Catholic (Calgary Catholic School Division) education systems. I bring a combination of strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, decision-making, communication and a passion for education. I am a strong communicator and listener, essential qualities for engaging with diverse stakeholders and fostering a sense of community. My ability to analyze complex issues and develop practical solutions aligns with the responsibilities of a Trustee. Above all, my commitment to Catholic education and its values of faith, respect, and service motivates me to work tirelessly for the success of our students and schools.
Advance Vote on January 24 & 25, 2025
St Margaret Elementary School - 3320 CAROL DR NW
You must vote at your designated voting station on By-election Day.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.