Dick Lemke

Trustee

Phone:  403-347-1963

Fax:  403-347-8190

E-Mail:  dlemke@rdpsd.ab.ca

Address:  4747-43 Street, Red Deer, Alberta   T4N 2E6

Together with my wife Jean, I have lived and worked in the Red Deer area for over 30 years. My three children are all graduates of Red Deer Public School

My life occupation is that of an educator.  Most of this time was spent in the classroom as a Social Studies instructor.  I understand and have experienced the pressures of our professional staff. I also know the rewards of students doing well in schools and the community.

I am active in the business community and belong to a number of local organizations.  These experiences help with budgeting and having a feel for the needs of our greater society.

My philosophy includes developing and encouraging a quality education experience for all students. A challenge we have is striving for excellence.  This excellence has to happen regardless of ability or background.  Red Deer Public and staff provide the building blocks to accomplish this goal.

Our system needs to serve a greater audience. Over 70% of the ratepayers do not have students in our schools.  The challenge is to offer value and inclusion to our community as a whole.  We need to become the social, cultural and athletic destination for Red Deer.

We as a board cannot control the revenue the provincial government allots us.  However, we can control special and extra fees. These fees must be limited, controlled and inspected.  In challenging times, affordability for everyone is paramount.

Quality public schools are the future of our children and community.  I hope to help keep this institution strong and vibrant.

An education system is not worth a great deal if it teachers young people how to make a living but does not teach them how to make a life.