Invitation to Apply
The Board of Trustees invites qualified members of the Catholic community who are passionate about faith-based education and community service to consider applying to serve as the Trustee for Haldimand County.
Trustees play a vital role in shaping Catholic education, ensuring that decisions are rooted in faith, and representing the voice of families and parishes across our communities.
Additional Information (Q&A)
Why is the Board proceeding with an appointment rather than a by-election?
After careful consideration, the Board will move forward with an appointment process rather than a by-election. This approach reflects both responsible stewardship and cost efficiency. Under Subsection 7(2) of the Municipal Elections Act, municipalities bear the cost of regular elections, while local boards are responsible for the costs of by-elections. The Board’s decision to proceed by appointment ensures resources remain focused on supporting students and classrooms.
What does the appointment process involve?
When a trustee position becomes vacant, the Board follows the procedures outlined in the Education Act and the Good Governance: A Guide for Trustees, School Boards, Directors of Education, and Communities 2022–2026.
The process typically includes:
- Public notice of the vacancy and application process.
- Submission of written applications by eligible candidates.
- Presentations before the Board.
- Trustee appointment through a majority vote of the Board at a public meeting.
What does the written application include?
The written application includes:
- Current resume.
- Expression of Interest.
- Presentation to the Board of Trustees.
What is included in an Expression of Interest?
An Expression of Interest may include a description of:
- Why the candidate can best represent the Catholic ratepayers of the school district.
- The skills, knowledge and experience of the candidate to fill the vacant role.
- The candidate’s connection to their Catholic community.
- A copy of content that will be used in the in-person presentation to the Board of Trustees (supporting PowerPoint presentation, video, etc.).
If specific technology is required for the presentation, the Board must be notified 48 hours in advance of the scheduled interview.
If you require assistance, including an alternate format of information, please contact directorsoffice@bhncdsb.ca.
What are the next steps?
Candidates will be made aware of the date, time, and logistics of the in-person presentation which will be held at the Catholic Education Centre in Brantford, ON during a Special Meeting of the Board in January 2026.
Who is eligible to apply for the vacant trustee position?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the qualifications under the Education Act. They must:
- Be a Roman Catholic who supports the separate school system.
- Be a Canadian citizen.
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Reside within the jurisdiction of the school board.
- Not be an employee of the Board or otherwise disqualified by law.
How will the Board ensure transparency in the appointment process?
The appointment process will be conducted in accordance with the Education Act and open meeting provisions of the Municipal Act. The Board will provide public notice of key dates and decisions and will make information about the vacancy and appointment process available on the Board’s website.
When will the application process open and close?
The application process is open from Thursday, October 30 – Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
When will the successful applicant start their role?
January 2026 following a board resolution at the special meeting of the board.
What is the role of a Catholic school board trustee?
Catholic trustees are called to serve as stewards of faith-based education. Their role includes:
- Contributing to the development and monitoring of the Board’s strategic plan.
- Representing the interests of Catholic school supporters within their community.
- Ensuring the delivery of quality Catholic education rooted in faith, learning, belonging, and wellness.
- Making decisions that reflect the Board’s motto — Excellence in Learning ~ Living in Christ.
How long will the appointed trustee serve?
The appointed trustee will serve for the remainder of the current term, which runs until October 2026, when the next municipal and school board elections are scheduled to occur.
Where can I find more information?
For more details, please refer to Good Governance: A Guide for Trustees, School Boards, Directors of Education, and Communities 2022–2026 – Board Representation, Trustee Elections, and Vacancy Information.
I have other questions, who can I contact?
For additional information, please email directorsoffice@bhncdsb.ca