Michael Sammon has decided to run for ALCDSB trustee for Kingston and Frontenac Islands and aims to prioritize educational assistants if elected.
Sammon, a retired custodian for the ALCDSB, submitted his paperwork last week for the upcoming October election.
Sammon detailed one of the main reasons he wants to run in an interview with YGK News.
“I want to run because I want to make sure the education dollars are spent on what matters most,” said Sammon.
According to the Ontario Education Act, a trustee’s responsibilities include developing plans, setting board budgets and supporting student achievement.
Sammon further explained where money should be allocated in ALCDSB schools.
“We need more money to ensure adequate health and safety for schools, and classrooms need to be supported,” said Sammon.
As a retired school board custodian and a fresh face, Sammon is confident that he can bring new perspectives and ideas to the role of trustee. He is passionate about educational assistant support in classrooms.
“I was in the school board for 25 years, and I know firsthand what’s needed, mainly the frontline workers and more EA support, I’m in the trenches; I know exactly what needs to be done and how to get it done,” said Sammon.
Ontario is facing a province-wide educational assistant shortage. EAs are seeking higher wages as the province negotiates new contracts, with current agreements set to expire in August.
Sammon is thinking about next steps ahead of the election and how to navigate a trustee campaign.
“I want to get some pamphlets out and get some business cards out and try to go to different functions and see what everybody’s looking for, what concerns them, and just get out there and talk to people,” said Sammon.
Sammon is running against one opponent, Brian Evoy, who currently holds the position, but candidates still have until Aug 21, 2026, to run. The school board election will take place on October 26, 2026.
