October 14, 2025
Prabh Sandhu
Marilyn Dennis is completing her second term as a Calgary Board of Education trustee for Wards 5 and 10 and says her work on the board has focused on equity and supporting students across northeast Calgary.
In an interview with RED FM, Dennis said she decided to run for trustee in 2017 after more than a decade of volunteering in local schools and working with an education nonprofit.
She wanted to address challenges she observed and give students the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
Dennis explained that trustees focus on governance, not daily operations. They set up policies, approve budgets, and provide direction to the chief superintendent but do not make decisions on bus routes, school transfers, or staffing.
“Trustees operate as a board. While each trustee has a vote, decisions are made together in the best interest of students. Different opinions guide the discussion, but the board majority sets the direction,” she said.
She said her biggest challenge was promoting equity across the CBE, especially in diverse and growing communities.
Her efforts, supported by fellow trustees, have shifted the focus from individual schools to student achievement and resource distribution across the system.
Dennis highlighted achievements including improved funding allocation, mental health support, and policies to enhance student outcomes.
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