ABBOTSFORD, BC — Lifelong Abbotsford resident and public service professional Vinay Waraich has officially launched his campaign for Abbotsford School Trustee in the upcoming election on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Running under the platform “Fresh Perspective. Strong Partnerships. Better Opportunities for Students,” Waraich seeks to bring an energetic, accessible, and grounded voice to the Abbotsford Board of Education. Having grown up in the local school system, attending John Maclure Elementary, Colleen & Gordie Howe Middle School, and W.J. Mouat Secondary, Waraich combines deep local roots with hands-on experience in parliamentary constituent services, youth sports coaching, and community leadership.
“This city was built by people who showed up, worked hard, looked after their families, and put in the effort to build something better,” said Waraich. “Our schools are the heart of this community. Leadership on the board shouldn’t be about sitting back or making top-down decisions. It is about listening to parents, understanding what students are facing in classrooms today, and bringing practical, common-sense solutions to the table.”
Waraich’s platform focuses on three main community priorities:
Student Success Beyond the Classroom: Expanding access to athletics, clubs, leadership opportunities, and mental health resources to ensure students build confidence and are prepared for real life after graduation.
Maximizing Community Access to School Spaces: Streamlining local facility policies so community sports leagues, youth organizations, and local families can easily use school gyms, fields, and spaces outside of school hours.
Stronger Inter-Agency Partnerships: Building direct collaboration between the Abbotsford School District and City Council on shared needs, including local recreation, school zone safety, traffic, and long-term community growth.
“Abbotsford gave me every opportunity to learn, grow, and belong, and I want every single student in our city to have that exact same shot,” added Waraich. “Parents deserve to know what is happening in their children’s schools, and students deserve spaces where they feel supported and motivated. I am ready to be that accountable, energetic voice for families across our city.”
The local school trustee election will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
