YORKTON, Sask. — Voters will head to the polls Sept. 23 to select a candidate to fill a vacant seat on the Good Spirit School Division board. Voting will take place at the Godfrey Dean Cultural Centre, 49 Smith St., from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Four candidates are seeking the position, bringing backgrounds in business, First Nations leadership, health care and community service.
Isabel O'Soup
O'Soup, a member of Key First Nation, has held a number of leadership roles, including tribal chief of the Yorkton Tribal Council, chief of Key First Nation and band councillor.
She said her experience in governance and advocacy has strengthened her commitment to accountability and relationship-building. O'Soup hopes to bring a First Nations perspective to the board while supporting learning environments built on respect, inclusion and student achievement.
Craig Czinkota
Czinkota brings more than 20 years of experience in business and commercial banking and currently works with the Ministry of Community Safety. His career has focused on collaboration, accountability and helping people succeed.
If elected, Czinkota said he would work with students, families, educators and community partners to support inclusive schools and improve educational outcomes. He has identified support for Indigenous students and learners facing social or economic barriers as an important priority.
Lenore Pinder
Pinder, who grew up on a farm near Springside, is seeking a return to the trustee role after previously serving on the Good Spirit School Division board.
Her professional background includes work with Saskatchewan's 4-H program and the provincial health system, most recently with the Saskatchewan Health Authority before retiring. Pinder said she values public education and believes her previous board experience and extensive volunteer involvement would help her contribute effectively to trustee discussions and decision-making.
Tim Sheppard
Sheppard has lived in the Yorkton area with his wife and three sons for nearly 11 years. He said his family has enjoyed making the community their home and raising their children locally.
Sheppard said he hopes to bring a conservative perspective to board decisions while listening respectfully to differing viewpoints. Drawing on previous experience leading youth groups, he said he understands the importance of supporting young people and helping them reach their potential.
