Trustee since 2026

John Baert is a Louis Riel School Division Trustee for Ward 4, having been elected on October 28, 2026. Born and raised in Windsor Park and Southdale, he graduated from Windsor Park Collegiate in 1985 after attending Van Belleghem, General Vanier, and Beliveau schools. He now resides in Island Lakes with his wife and son, who is a student in the LRSD.

A graduate of the Creative Communications program at Red River College, John’s career spans journalism, serving in the Manitoba Premier’s Office alongside Premier Gary Doer, and working as a public affairs coordinator with the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union. His community leadership includes serving on several public boards, such as the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba, the Manitoba Health Coalition, Manitobans for the Arts, and the United Way Campaign Cabinet.

John’s passion for education and early learning began as a board member with Lord Roberts Children’s Programs, followed by involvement in parent advisory committees at Island Lakes School and J.H. Bruns Collegiate. As an elected school board trustee, he is dedicated to providing a strong voice for students and families and ensuring that decisions at the LRSD Board are always centred on student academic success and healthy development.

Over the past decade, John has been active as a St. Boniface Seals hockey coach and a baseball coach with Bonivital Baseball and the Southdale Community Centre. He believes strongly in supporting school athletics and arts programs to help students grow into well-rounded members of the community.