Photo Courtesy Dale Tiedemann

By Tanner Smith

Grande Prairie Public Schools

GPPSD Trustee Election Candidate Profile: Dale Tiedemann

Sep 29, 2025 | 5:26 PM

Dale Tiedemann is one of 12 individuals running for seven Grande Prairie Public School Board Trustee vacancies.

He was asked to provide a candidate bio, or answer four questions in 600 words or less.

1. What has inspired you to run for mayor/council/school trustee in the Oct. 20, 2025, municipal election?

I am running for School Board Trustee because I believe schools are the heart of our community. Throughout my career, I have worked alongside students, educators, families, and community partners to create opportunities that help youth discover their potential. I have seen firsthand how the right supports and programs can change the course of a young person’s life.

That is what drives me to ensure our schools are places where every student feels supported, challenged, and proud to belong. I want to contribute to a division that delivers high-quality education and provides pathways that prepare students for their future—whether that means pursuing post-secondary studies, entering the trades, or moving directly into the workforce.

2. What skills or experience do you have that you feel would make you a good fit for the role?

I bring a broad perspective shaped by experience in several different sectors. In my current role with CAREERS: The Next Generation, I work with students, educators, and employers to create opportunities that connect classroom learning with real-world experience. This has given me practical insight into the challenges students face and how partnerships can open doors for them.

I also have a background in media, public relations, and community engagement, which has helped me build strong communication and listening skills, as well as an appreciation for diverse perspectives. In addition, my work in both public service and the non-profit sector has given me experience with fiscal responsibility, governance, and balancing community needs with available resources

3. What do you feel are the key or main election issues in your community, and what are the issues of priority for you?

A strong school division begins with being both an excellent place to learn and an excellent place to work.

My top priorities are:

• Responsible Stewardship & Thoughtful Decision-Making
Decisions should be guided by evidence, results, and the long-term interests of students. With rising costs and limited resources, fiscal responsibility and transparency are more important than ever. Advocacy must be measured and effective – making a clear case for the funding and supports required to sustain high-quality education.

• Student Success, Health & Well-Being
Strong schools build strong communities, and that starts with fostering a culture of pride, respect, and belonging. Students deserve schools where they feel safe, supported, and proud to belong. Staff should feel recognized and valued for their contributions. Infrastructure also matters – schools must be safe, modern, and equipped to meet the needs of a growing and diverse student population.

• Community Voice & Engagement
Public education is strongest when the community is engaged. Students, staff, and families should know their voices are heard and reflected in decision-making. Trustees must listen carefully, communicate openly, and ensure the division remains responsive to community needs.

Ultimately, my focus is on keeping students at the center of every decision, while ensuring the division remains future-focused, fiscally responsible, and accountable to the people it serves.

4. Where can people learn more about you?

You can follow my campaign and learn more about my priorities for Grande Prairie Public School Division on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DaleT4Trustee.

If you have questions or would like to share your thoughts, I’d be happy to hear from you – reach me anytime at DaleT4Trustee@gmail.com.