Commissioner Flook re-elected by acclamation

In an exclusive interview with the Messenger, we asked the Commissioner-elect why he thought nobody else stepped up to the plate. “ I prefer to see it as a vindication for my dedication and hard work in Verdun schools the last 4 years, but certainly the lack of a major local issue is always a contributing factor in terms of candidates or not and eventual voter turnout, but I am disappointed that the Anglophone community won’t have the chance to show their support for an English school board, for we’re the only level of government universally elected and answerable to those who are identified with the Anglophone community,” stated Mr. Flook.

Eric Bender, an outgoing Commissioner in the West Island mentioned in his retirement statement at the last council meeting that he would like to see the elected people have more a say in the selection of school administrators when there is an opening in the local school of his or her district. Mr. Flook stopped short saying that they should directly name a replacement, mentioning he doesn’t know every principal in the board, but would continue to provide input as to the type of principals needed for the local schools, but seemed to have trouble with the centralization of power.

Mr. Flook continues, “There has been a general decline in the influence of the local commissioners over the years, and to the extent where everything seems to be funneled, at least where Quebec is concerned through the Chairman, and I think there are very few people capable of being such a one-man show.”

In terms of plans for the next few years, Mr. Flook will continue to address the need for more special needs funding and will continue to bring a Verdun view for special needs students and will continue to consult both principals and parents, and also continue to look at special programs for this end of the Board. Mr.Flook also credited and cited the initiatives taken by Verdun Elementary and the new CLC at Riverview as exciting prospects that make good use of the buildings for the Anglophone community of Verdun.

In closing, Mr. Flook wanted to thank his team, “I would like to thank my election team for their support and encouragement and for being prepared to wage an effective campaign, said Mr. Flook. Douglas Flook will be sworn in for the new term at the next council meeting on Nov.12th.