Byelection 2025: Rosey Manhas' candidate profile

The City of Coquitlam is organizing the School District 43 (SD43) byelection to fill a vacant Coquitlam trustee seat. Voters go to the polls on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 (with advance voting open on Feb. 12 and 15). The Tri-City News asked the five candidates — Rosey Manhas, Candace Knoll, Dana Ebtekar, Nash Milani and Frank Do — to answer 15 questions about their campaign.

What city do you live in?

My husband and I live in Coquitlam. Our kids were born in this community and now attend middle school and elementary school.

What do you do for a living?

I work at Royal Columbian Hospital as an interventional radiology technologist in medical imaging.

Where do you volunteer in the Tri-Cities?

For the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as president of the SD43 DPAC, vice-president and health and safety coordinator. In these capacities, I’ve collaborated with parents, teachers, and school administrators to ensure that parents’ voices are heard and that students have safe, well-resourced learning environments. Before that, I served as PAC chair at Smiling Creek Elementary, where I worked closely with the SD43 board and the province to advocate for and provide input on the development of Burke Mountain’s new middle/high school and Coast Salish Elementary. Beyond my involvement in schools, I am a member of the Coquitlam Foundation’s grant committee and a long-time volunteer as manager and assistant coach with Coquitlam Metro Ford Soccer.

Have you ever run for public office before? If so, what, when and where?

What public figures and organizations are endorsing your campaign?

I am honoured to be endorsed by several respected community leaders who share my passion for supporting students and families. Former trustee and current Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA Jennifer Blatherwick, a strong advocate for parents and increased school funding, has offered her endorsement and support. I am also proud to have the endorsement of Coquitlam-Burke Mountain MLA Jodie Wickens, a dedicated mother and long-time champion for inclusion and access to quality education for all children. Additionally, I am grateful to have the backing of current Coquitlam trustee Carol Brodie and board chair Michael Thomas. Former DPAC executive and city councillor Teri Towner, as well as councillor Matt Djonlic, have also offered their endorsements. I deeply value the endorsement and support of current DPAC vice-president Jamie Manchester and many dedicated local parents actively involved in their children’s PACs.

Have you ever worked for SD43? If so, when and what position?

Do you have a relative or former family member that currently works for SD43? Who and what position?

Do you currently have children learning in SD43? If so, what schools?

Yes. My eldest attends Kwayhquitlam Middle and my youngest attends Smiling Creek Elementary.

Have you ever been a part of a school organization such as a PAC? If so, where and what leadership positions did you have?

SD43 DPAC president for the last three years.
SD43 DPAC vice-president for one year.
SD43 DPAC health and safety coordinator for one year.
Smiling Creek Elementary PAC chair for two years.

What is your financial background with public institutions?

I understand budgeting and financial oversight from my experience leading public organizations. As DPAC president, I’ve overseen financial processes related to parent advisory councils and worked collaboratively on funding priorities for schools. Additionally, as a member of the Coquitlam Foundation’s grants committee, I help assess and allocate community grants responsibly. These roles have given me valuable insight into strategic financial decision-making, accountability, and funding distribution for educational and community initiatives. Over the past several years, I have also regularly attended board meetings, gaining a deep understanding of the many facets of the budget process.

Why are you running to be a Coquitlam school trustee?

I’m running for school board trustee because I believe in the power of public education to shape our children’s futures. My goal is to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, thrives in an inclusive, safe and equitable learning environment.

How will you support students?

With my experience in education advocacy, health and safety, and community engagement, I will champion safe, inclusive schools where every student has access to mental health support, diverse learning opportunities and the tools they need to succeed. I’m committed to building strong partnerships between families, educators and the district to support every learner.

How will you support teachers?

I will support teachers by advocating for professional development, mental health resources and adequate classroom funding. By fostering open communication and valuing their expertise, I aim to ensure teachers have the tools and support they need to help students thrive.

How will you ensure the board of education chooses the right senior management for new roles?

Choosing the right senior managers is one of the most important roles for a board of trustees. I would advocate for a transparent, merit-based hiring process, with clear criteria for qualifications and alignment for SD43 priorities.

What is the most pressing issue facing SD43 today?

Coquitlam is growing. As more families choose to make our community their home, my focus will be on working with the province to build new schools and, when we rebuild schools, ensure planning factors in neighbourhood growth. We also need to acknowledge the growing pressures on our kids today when it comes to their mental and physical health. Resources to support education assistants, teachers, and to address bullying are critical to our kids’ long-term learning.

Contact information