DR DAVID DE GARIS DE LISLE, B.Sc., M.A., Ph.D. Background in education: Doctorate: Ph.D. McGill University Master’s:   M.A. University of Toronto Bachelor of Science: B.Sc. University of London Certificates in Education: University of Southampton and University of London  I welcome the opportunity to serve on the Education Board and thereby apply the knowledge and experience that I have gained in public service, private industry and varied educational environments over the years.  I strongly believe that investment in education offers a lifeline especially in these times of changing economic and social circumstances.    Education sets a strong foundation by which, not only our young people, but also those who wish to follow a change in their career, can go forward in life.  And I believe that everyone, irrespective of circumstances, must have the opportunity to realize their full potential. My own interest in education began at the Grammar School for Boys where I was encouraged to take up teaching as a career.  A grant through the Education Department supported my training years—something that I very much appreciated and would like to see continued to avoid burdening students with loans. I began teaching at a secondary modern school in Hertfordshire and a large comprehensive school in South East London.  After five years, I was invited to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Toronto in Canada. I had always dreamed of going west to see Canada and I welcomed the opportunity. On finishing my master’s degree I taught geography at two collegiate grammar schools.   I later received my doctorate in geography from McGill University.  Having earned post graduate degrees from both Toronto and McGill Universities, with financial assistance towards my research from the Canadian Council, I went on to lecture at the University of Ottawa and Brock University. My further education and research in the areas of location theory, resource management and regional development enabled me to hold senior appointments as an economist in planning and management in Canada with the Federal and Provincial government as well as private industry as a management consultant. As an island community our people are the key to sustaining a high quality, well staffed workforce.   It is important that we offer the education and training necessary for all to contribute to the islands’ welfare and to become an integral part of the community. The challenge for the Education Department is to ensure that the island provides the very best quality of education and equality of educational opportunity to all islanders.