Trustee Nickela Anderson
EPSB Ward D
About Nickela
Nickela (she/her) is hounoured and humbled to be elected as the Ward D Trustee. She understands that public education is at a critical crossroads and she excited to get to work advocating for students, families, staff, and communities.
With a professional background in research, evaluation, and public engagement (view LinkedIn profile), Nickela brings a deep understanding of complex issues and a strong commitment to evidence-based decision-making. She believes that the voices of those most impacted by policy - students, families, and educators - must be at the forefront of shaping meaningful solutions.
As a mother of three current Edmonton Public Schools students, Nickela has spent years navigating the system and advocating for her children's diverse learning needs. She is a trusted ally to many parents, offering compassionate, clear support in their advocacy efforts.
For over a decade, Nickela has held leadership roles on School Councils and Parent Associations across three schools. Her focus has always been on fostering inclusive, healthy school communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a pivotal role in uniting three school communities, cultivating a strong sense of connection and belonging at the new school site.
Commitments
Protect public education
Public education is the foundation of a fair, thriving community.
I will work to keep our schools strong, well-funded, and open to every child - no matter their background, needs, or where they live. That means advocating for stable and adequate funding, reasonable classroom sizes, protecting the integrity of our public system from privatization, and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interests of students, not politics.
Include every student
Every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported at school.
I will champion inclusive practices that meet diverse learning, cultural, and mental health needs. I will push for policies and resources that help all students - including those with disabilities, English language learners, and students who have been historically marginalized - to thrive in our classrooms and feel a true sense of belonging.
Look beyond the usual measures of success
Students are more than test scores and report cards.
I will advocate for learning that helps students grow into curious, capable, and confident people. That means supporting creative, hands-on, and real-world learning opportunities; valuing social and emotional development; and celebrating the many ways students succeed - in academics, the arts, trades, sports, and community leadership.
Listen & lead with care
Schools work best when the people in them - students, families, and staff - feel heard and respected.
I promise to be accessible, transparent, and open to your ideas. I will build genuine relationships in our community and make decisions guided by what I hear from you. Leadership to me means bringing people together, asking tough questions, and always doing what’s right for our kids.
I know that real change doesn’t happen alone. It happens when we work together, listen to each other, and stand up for what we believe in.
Nickela's here to listen
I value hearing directly from families, staff, students, and community members. Your experiences and perspectives help shape the conversations and decisions that support all students across our division.
Share your thoughts, ideas, or concerns by completing my survey. I'm also available anytime by email or phone.