Langley residents, please participate in the upcoming Langley School District Trustee elections on January 15, 2011 (see below for voting info).
The four candidates have been asked their opinion regarding Wi-Fi in schools and parental concerns due to potential health problems from long-term, low-level radio frequency radiation exposure. Here are their answers in the order of interview:
Hattie Hogeterp - Has seen some of the Wi-Fi in Schools TV coverage. Sees it as a controversial issue. Interested in learning more.
Cecelia Reekie - Has read some of the studies and would need to study the issue more. Would like to meet with me personally after the election to learn about the issue. Believes there needs to be more open communication on the part of the board. Cecelia has attended almost very single School District meeting over the last four years. Cecelia has a special needs child and she is experienced in challenging school administration with regard to a controversial issue.
Ed Wood - Believes that while technology is wonderful, he has specific concerns about children's abuse of same which may result in bullying and even suicide. He believes technology needs to be addressed in a holistic approach. Very concerned about texting replacing normal social communication patterns in an unhealthy manner. His first priority is budgetary issues and his second priority is technology and its proper use. He was not aware of the parental concerns re: Wi-Fi in Schools, but would like to learn more and believes there could very well be health issues from exposures. He thinks it would be wise to form a committee to study the issue, as has been done in Edmonton and Victoria.
Brian Leonard - Believes discussions are good, although goalposts may not be able to be changed, at least people should be heard. Is not aware of the Wi-Fi in schools issue, but believes there needs to be a standard of open communication. He would like more information.
Voting will take place on Saturday, January 15, 2011 between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm at any of the following locations:
1. Aldergrove Community Secondary School - 26850 - 29 Avenue
2. D. W. Poppy Secondary School - 23752 - 52 Avenue
3. Langley Fundamental Middle/Secondary School - 21250 - 42 Avenue
4. R. C. Garnett Elementary School - 7096 - 201 Street
5. Walnut Grove Secondary School - 8919 Walnut Grove Drive
Citizens for Safe Technology Society,
http://www.citizensforsafetechnology.org: Empowering the public to protect children & youth from unsafe wireless technologies.