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Kathryn Sobko submits Abbotsford school board election bid

Sobko pushed back against the SOGI 123 initiative, which promotes inclusion and safety of LGBTQ+ youth
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Kathryn Sobko. (Submitted photo)

Kathryn Sobko is announcing her election bid for school board, saying she has concerns around “our changing political climate infiltrating our schools.”

Sobko says schools should “value and respect” diversity of all forms. But in an apparent push back against the SOGI 123 initiative Sobko said parents “should have confidence their family values are being respected.”

“I do not believe that schools are the appropriate venue to promote social and political agendas that may cause confusion or division between the values of a child and their parents,” she said.

The SOGI 123 initiative is a set of resources for teachers, as well as a guideline for school districts’ codes of conduct, that promote inclusive materials in class and advocate a safe environment, which advocates say is necessary to curtail bullying of and subsequent mental health struggles for LGBTQ+ youth.

RELATED: SOGI 123 protesters clash at B.C. Legislature

Sobko is a certified management accountant, with a financial securities licence and education in counselling, life coaching, physical and health education and church ministry.

“I am an advocate of making healthy choices in all aspects of life and supporting all people toward this end.”

She manages the Abbotsford Bible for Missions store and held manager roles at two non-profits. She adds that she is “familiar with the process of working together with a board” and on committees on health and safety, policy and volunteer recruitment.

Sobko notes volunteer experience in coaching, teaching aerobic classes and organizing community events, including a 10-kilometre run, a bowl-a-thon and fashion shows.

RELATED: Abbotsford candidate list released as nomination period closes

Find all of our local election coverage here.

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Dustin Godfrey | Reporter
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