Ralf Mesenbrink acclaimed as UGDSB chair
GUELPH – Trustee Ralf Mesenbrink will serve as chair of the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) for another year.
Trustee Katherine Hauser will continue as co-chair.
Both were acclaimed during the school board meeting on Nov. 28.
Mesenbrink thanked other trustees for their “support and confidence in both me and our ability together to bring our voices together and make the best decisions for the system.”
He said his biggest task as chair of the board last year was his own learning and growth. Specifically, he learned about each trustee and how to “best ensure all our strengths and interests, community connections, and lived experiences are brought to the table.”
Mesenbrink reflected on what the board achieved in the last year, including making budget decisions to “address learning gaps among our youngest students.”
The UGDSB hired Alicia Ralph as a human rights and equality advisor, “and most importantly, we had the opportunity to support our staff with the critical work they do with learners every day,” Mesenbrink said.
“I think I speak for all my colleagues when I say that we are looking forward to continuing to work with and support every staff member in this organization to the benefit of all our learners.”
“I look forward to continuing to work with chair Mesenbrink and vice-chair Hauser, and the entire board of trustees,” said UGDSB Director of Education Peter Sovran.
