01
Expert Leadership
A doctorate in education and 25 years of experience brought to the board table. Not politics. Results.
PickeringElection · October 26, 2026
Strong schools.
Brighter futures.
Dr. Andre De Freitas is running for DCDSB Trustee — bringing 25 years of education leadership, $300M+ in budget stewardship, and a parent's heart to the board table.
In education
0 Years
Building student success across Ontario institutions.
Budgets managed
$0M+
Real fiscal stewardship, not slogans.
01The Candidate
Meet Dr. D.
This is not a career move.
This is a calling.
A first-generation postsecondary student who built a 25-year career in Canadian education. He holds a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Western University, has managed $300M+ in student funding, and has led student success initiatives at institutions across Ontario.
A Catholic school parent with children in the DCDSB system, a 12-year Pickering resident, and the founder of AI-powered education platforms recognized by eCampusOntario.
0+
Years in Education
EdD
Doctorate in Leadership
$0M+
Budgets Managed
1st
First-Gen to Doctorate
02The Manifesto
Why I'm Running.
Our children deserve a trustee who understands education from the inside.
02
AI-Ready Schools
Our schools need a trustee who has built AI education platforms and understands how to prepare students for what's next.
03
Every Student Matters
From financial aid to mental health to accessibility — making sure no student falls through the cracks.
03A Personal Message
A Note From Dr. D.
Hi everyone, I'm Dr. Andre De Freitas — Dr. D.
Like many of you, I'm a parent who wants the very best for our children. I've spent my career working in education, helping students overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and build brighter futures.
That's why I'm running to be your Durham Catholic District School Board Trustee.
I believe our schools should be places where every student feels safe, supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed. I believe parents deserve a voice, educators deserve support, and students deserve every opportunity to thrive.
I'm not running because I'm a politician. I'm running because I care deeply about our kids, our schools, and our community.
I'd be honoured to earn your trust, your support, and your vote.
— Dr. D.Dr. Andre De Freitas
The ask
I'm asking for your support for DCDSB Trustee.
Mark your calendar
Oct 26
Election day, 2026 · Pickering
04The Platform
Six priorities
for DCDSB.
- 01Priority
Expert Leadership at the Board Table
Professional education experience, data-driven decision-making, and real accountability at every board meeting.
- 02Priority
Preparing Students for the AI Era
Responsible AI integration, digital literacy curriculum, and teacher training so our students lead the future — not fear it.
- 03Priority
Student Mental Health & Wellbeing
School counsellors, early intervention, and trauma-informed support. Not awareness campaigns. Actual resources.
- 04Priority
Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency
$300M+ in budget management experience applied so every education dollar delivers maximum impact for students.
- 05Priority
Equity, Access & Inclusion
Students of every background, ability, and circumstance receive the support they need to succeed.
- 06Priority
Strong Partnerships With Families & Community
Open communication, meaningful engagement, and genuine collaboration between schools, parents, and the Pickering community.
No lawn signs
Your share is the sign.
This campaign isn't printing lawn signs. The most useful thing you can do is follow along and pass this page to a neighbour who votes in Pickering.
05Voting Information
Election day is
October 26, 2026.
School board trustee is elected on the same ballot as your municipal council. To vote for a Catholic school board trustee, you must be registered as a Catholic school supporter on the voters' list.
What a trustee actually does
- 01
Set board policy and approve the annual budget for Durham Catholic District School Board.
- 02
Represent families and parishes of the ward at the board table.
- 03
Hold the board accountable for student achievement, safety, and Catholic education.
Ward boundaries and the certified candidate list are published by the City of Pickering closer to the election. Always confirm details with the official source.
City of Pickering
How to vote & check your registration
Watch the City's official guide on voting options, ID requirements, and confirming you are on the voters' list.
Watch on Facebook
06Voices
What People Are Saying.
Andre genuinely cares about kids and the community. He listens, he shows up, and he gets things done — exactly what our schools need on the board.
Dilux P.
Pickering Resident & Parent
I've watched Andre lead with integrity for years. He brings real expertise to the table without losing the human side. He has my full support.
Neil F.
Community Member
As a mom, I want a trustee who actually understands what's happening in our classrooms. Dr. D does — and he'll fight for our kids.
Michelle S.
DCDSB Parent
07Get Involved
Join the Campaign.
Share a post. Knock on a door. Every bit counts.
Tell us how you'd like to help and we'll be in touch within 48 hours with the next concrete step.
Direct line
campaign@drddurham.ca