Meet Your Trustee Candidates, Part 2:
Roman Nurpeissov, John O'Flynn, Karen Straith and Felicia Zhu
Editor's Note: The Watershed has contacted all the current candidates running in the upcoming Municipal Election to give them the opportunity to answer a few questions. All the candidates were offered the same questions (apart from those which differ to reflect the experience of candidates who have not held office before). This is the second of a two-part series profiling the candidates for School Trustees.
School Trustee Candidate Roman Nurpeissov
Why are you seeking office as a school trustee?
As a father of two children in West Vancouver public schools, I want every student to develop strong analytical and logical reasoning skills, feel safe and supported, and have opportunities to pursue their talents. I’m running to bring a strong parental voice and practical experience to the board. My priorities are academic excellence, timely learning support, student well-being and responsible spending. Families should understand school decisions and know that their concerns receive thoughtful consideration.
What other similar experience do you have to offer?
I have served on Irwin Park Elementary’s Parent Advisory Council and represented the school at DPAC. I also taught law part-time at university for five years. With more than 20 years as a lawyer, I have led legal teams and worked on financial transactions, governance, construction contracts and dispute resolution. These experiences have prepared me to scrutinize budgets and facilities proposals, weigh competing priorities and work constructively with people who hold different views.
What do you bring to the table for students, teachers and parents in the district?
I bring a parent’s perspective, teaching experience and the habit of examining evidence before making decisions. For students, I would advocate for strong learning, timely assistance and meaningful opportunities to pursue their interests. For teachers and support staff, I would prioritize classroom resources and support for different learning needs. For parents, I would offer accessible communication and follow-through. My commitment extends across Lions Bay, Bowen Island and West Vancouver, with attention to transportation, costs and other barriers affecting participation.
More about Roman Nurpeissov's background and priorities: romannurpeissov.com
School Trustee Candidate John O'Flynn
Why are you seeking office as a school trustee?
Since moving into the Cedardale community in 2021, though a North Shore resident since 2002, I remain passionate about learning and leading in various settings. I value the opportunity to work with diverse and supportive communities that share a common vision and mission.
What other similar experience do you have to offer?
Presently serving BC Soccer as a Board Director, WV Pickleball Advisory Roundtable, WV Awards Committee, WV Historical Society and BC Social Studies Teachers Association.
What do you bring to the trustee table for students, teachers and parents in the district?
With 30-plus years of experience in education as a teacher and principal, I want to ensure accountability for the decisions to be made and that community voices in Lions Bay, Bowen Island and WV remain heard.
More info on John O'Flynn can be found HERE.
Incumbent School Trustee Candidate Felicia Zhu
How long have you held the position of school trustee?
Four years. I was elected as a School Trustee in 2022, and I’m now seeking re-election
for a second term.
Why are you seeking office this term?
Education has been a big part of my life. I’m an educator by background, and both of my children grew up in our public schools.
For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a School Trustee. I’ve attended every Board business meeting and served on its major committees, including Human Resources, Finance and Facilities, and Audit, which has given me a deeper understanding of our district and the responsibility that comes with this role.
Three of my fellow trustees are stepping down after years of dedicated service. I’m
seeking another term because I want to help carry their good work forward and bring
some continuity to the new Board. I’m excited about the fresh perspectives new trustees
will bring. I hope my experience — and the way I work: showing up prepared, listening
carefully, and working with others — can help the new Board get off to a strong start.
What do you bring to the table for students, parents and teachers in the district?
I bring the perspectives of an educator, a parent, and a trustee with four years of
experience.
One of my children is still in secondary school, while the other graduated last year and
is now in his second year at university. Supporting students through key transitions — from early learning to school, from Grade 7 to 8, and from high school to
post-secondary education — is a focus of our district’s strategic plan. I’ve been through all
three with my children, including that last transition very recently. I know first-hand how
much these moments matter to families.
My studies and work have taken me to different countries, and I completed my Master’s
in Education at Oxford. That background has taught me that families can experience the
same school system in very different ways. It keeps me curious, open to new ideas, and
willing to ask whether what we’re doing is working for all our students.
As a trustee, I make a point of being present. I listen to students, teachers, support staff,
and parents. When someone brings me a concern, I take it seriously. I may not have an
immediate answer, but I’ll ask questions, follow up, and help find a practical way
forward. Sometimes that also means bringing a broader issue to the Board.
I also believe trustees must advocate for public education beyond our district. That
means speaking up to the Province for the funding and resources our schools need, so
teachers and support staff can do their work and every student has the opportunity to
succeed.
School Trustee Candidate Karen Straith
Why are you seeking office as a school trustee?
I want to use my combined experience as a parent and PAC member and my years of work experience in the school system (with the West Vancouver Teachers’ Association, and on not-for-profit boards) to make sure we have the best schools possible. You will know that I have succeeded if you can look at every decision I supported as a trustee and see that this is a decision that puts kids first.
What other similar experience do you have to offer?
I have more than 12 combined years volunteering with Special Olympics BC, serving on both local and regional boards as well as the SOBC Provincial Leadership Council. Throughout this work, my focus has been consistent: ensuring that every athlete has access to high‑quality, safe, and inclusive sport opportunities. Advocacy has been at the heart of my volunteer service, and it would remain at the heart of my work as a school trustee.
I would advocate to the provincial government for stronger, sustainable funding for public education. I would also advocate for every student by championing diverse educational pathways, academic excellence, and learning environments that are safe, welcoming, and inclusive. Every student deserves the foundation that will launch them into rewarding lives and meaningful careers.
What do you bring to the trustee table for students, teachers and parents in the district?
The main job of trustees is to provide oversight and governance and to make sure we are allocating resources where they will have the greatest impact. My professional and personal life experiences and my passion for public education give me the background needed to begin the job with a deep understanding of the district and its stakeholders, and what it needs from trustees on day one. I will make sure that the district listens to and clearly communicates decisions to our students, teachers, and parents in the district.
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