Why I'm Running
I care deeply about public education, and I share what most parents and grandparents and, in fact, all community members want: to see our children flourish into kind, thoughtful, engaged and skillful citizens. SD23's motto of "Together We Learn" needs to be reflected from the Board table to the classroom, with parents and beyond. I am a good team player, and I want to be part of the team of trustees to pursue such a learning environment.
2011–2014
Former SD23 Trustee. Served on all Board committees, plus Harmony Day, Veedam, and CATCH (Community Action Team for Children's Health).
13
Grandchildren, 12 of them local
Decades
Educator, Business Owner & Major Volunteer
I'm married to Dr. John Brinkerhoff, a retired family physician, and I'm the mother of four adult children and grandmother to thirteen. My stake in strong local schools is personal and lasting.
Family on the lake, summer 2026
My Credentials
Experience at the Board Table
I've done this work before. Having served as a trustee from 2011 to 2014, I understand how board policy, budgets, and district planning actually function, so I can contribute from day one.
Steady, Practical Stewardship
As a retired ESL teacher and former business owner, I look at decisions through both lenses, emphasizing the reading, writing and math skills students need, and what's needed at the Board table to oversee our district running responsibly.
A Welcoming School Community
A lifetime of community volunteering has taught me that people do their best when they feel respected and included. That's the school culture I want to help SD23 keep building.
Community & Board Experience
Global Citizen Events
I'm co-founder and president of Global Citizen Events, leading Taste of Home, The Global Schoolhouse, the Sustainable Development Challenge, Arts for Social Change, and Reconcili-Action, building a more welcoming Okanagan.
Board & advisory roles:
Voting FAQ
When and where can I vote?
General voting day is Saturday, October 17, 2026, with most locations open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Advance voting days are October 7, 10, 14, 15, and 16. For the current list of voting locations, see kelowna.ca/election.
Can I vote by mail?
Yes. Residents who can't vote in person during advance voting or on general voting day can request a mail ballot. The deadline to request one for delivery by Canada Post is Tuesday, September 29, and for in-person pickup, Tuesday, October 13. Completed ballots must be received by the Chief Election Officer by 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 17 to be counted. Apply early to allow time for delivery, since Canada Post operates on weekdays only.
Request a mail ballot
- Online: mail ballot request form
- In person: Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 1435 Water Street, Kelowna
- By phone: 250-469-8645
Receive your mail ballot
- By mail starting October 1, 2026
- For pickup at City Hall from October 1 to October 14, 2026
Return your ballot
Completed ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on October 17 to be counted. You can return your ballot:
- In person at the Office of the City Clerk, Kelowna City Hall (2nd floor)
- By drop box at City Hall, beside the main Water Street entrance
- By mail to: Office of the City Clerk, Kelowna City Hall, 1435 Water Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1J4
Get Involved
Want to help, ask a question, or share your ideas for SD23 schools? Send me a message. I'd love to hear from you.