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For School Board

Kathleen Carlsen

For more than 30 years, Kathleen Carlsen has worked alongside and supported children, youth and families, helping young people feel safe, supported and valued. Bringing trustee experience and deep roots in community service and parent advocacy, she is committed to strengthening student well-being through meaningful engagement and collaboration, while advocating for the funding New Westminster schools need.
  • Incumbent New Westminster school trustee, elected in the 2024 byelection.
  • More than 30 years working directly with children, youth and families through the City of New Westminster’s Parks and Recreation Department.
  • Studied Business Administration at Capilano College.
  • Known to generations of New Westminster families as “Miss Kathleen,” teaching dance, movement and music for more than 30 years.
  • Member of the Scottish Dance Teachers Alliance since 1986
  • Former District Parent Advisory Council chair and former PAC leader and volunteer at three New Westminster schools.
  • Community volunteer with the Massey Victory Heights Residents Association, Hope Omid, New West Soccer Club and local youth sports.
  • Born and raised in New Westminster and proud to call Massey Heights home with her family.
Every child deserves to feel safe, supported and valued wherever they learn, grow and belong. That’s the belief that has guided my work for more than 30 years, and it continues to guide every decision I make as your school trustee.

Kathleen Carlsen believes every child deserves to feel safe, supported and valued wherever they learn, grow and belong. After more than 30 years working directly with children, youth and families, she was elected to the New Westminster Board of Education in the 2024 byelection and continues to put students at the centre of every decision she makes.

Kathleen’s priorities include safe and welcoming schools, student well-being, meaningful engagement with students and families, and advocating for adequate funding to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. She believes strong public education is built through collaboration, transparency and respectful partnerships between the board, families, staff and the broader community.

Born in New Westminster, Kathleen studied Business Administration at Capilano College and has worked for the City of New Westminster’s Parks and Recreation Department for more than 30 years. Known to generations of local families as “Miss Kathleen,” she has spent decades teaching dance, movement and music while creating welcoming spaces where children build confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging. She is a former chair of the District Parent Advisory Council and former PAC leader and volunteer at three New Westminster schools. Kathleen has also volunteered with the Massey Victory Heights Residents Association, youth sports and the New West Soccer Club. She lives in Massey Heights with her husband, Thomas, and their son.