Cheri is a strong, outspoken and enthusiastic leader, and a passionate advocate for our public schools. With experience in broadcast television news as a former Television News Reporter, in media relations, and now in provincial government program delivery, she is a dynamic voice highlighting today's issues and tomorrow's opportunities. She is the Chair of Hammarskjold High School’s School Council, an active member of the Lakehead Board's Council of School Council Chairs, and was Chair of the Choose Hammarskjold campaign that successfully lobbied the Lakehead Board to reverse their plan to close her local high school. Working in Strategic Communications for the Ontario Government (Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services), she understands provincial legislation, program policy and the decision-making processes of government. Her work has helped her gain an understanding of current issues facing our Indigenous communities, children in the child welfare system, the supports available to families through the Ontario Autism Program, the Ontario’s Special Needs Strategy and mental health supports for students in our schools. Previously, she worked for the Ontario Student Assistance Program helping colleges and universities administer student grants and loans to Ontario students. As a stay-at-home mom, she drove a school bus for several years, gaining an understanding of transportation logistics, financial pressures, and school bus service delivery in urban and rural centers. Cheri is running for school board trustee of Lakehead Public School Board.