Donna Koch

I have been in Grande Prairie for over 40 years and was born and raised in the Peace Country, only leaving for University. When I decided to run for GPPSD Trustee, I wanted to contribute to creating great citizens. The best part of being a Trustee is being able to participate in meetings, school events and decision making, engaging with parents and teachers and all staff and students. As a Registered Nurse I have had the privilege of holding leadership positions in the north for over 30 years and now work as a health consultant travelling across Canada and Internationally. I believe you get out of your community what you put into it and have had the pleasure of being part of the 1995 Canada Winter Games, QE 11 Hospital Foundation Festival of Trees, Hospice Palliative Care, German Canadian Club, PACE, Grande Prairie and Area Community Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation Red Dress Event, Education Foundation Strut 'n Strive, Support the Girls Cancer Fundraiser, Grande Prairie Golf and Country Club, and Rotary. My hobbies center around my love of family and animals and our 2 fur kids Hugo and Tory. I love travel, fashion, fundraising and golf.  Education is one of the most important portfolios in government. We need to ensure we are advocating for students repeatedly and consistently. This includes targeted supports such as mental health, career and technology. We have experienced challenging times as we have moved through the COVID pandemic, and we need to continue supports. The curriculum remains top priority as does student learning including access to extracurricular activities.  GPPSD priorities in addition to Covid, Curriculum and a good solid governance are students, staff, parents and the Community.