Robert Maloughney, a retired teacher and school administrator, has won a byelection to become the newest trustee of the Red Deer Catholic Regional Division.
Maloughney won the byelection with 381 votes, replacing Adriana LaGrange who resigned to run in the April 16 provincial election under the United Conservative Party banner.
Maloughney’s opponent Terry Kulcyzcki, who works in human resources, garnered 83 votes.
The City of Red Deer announced the results of the byelection March 29. Maloughney will serve the remaining year and a half of LaGrange’s term as one of five at-large trustees for the Red Deer district.
He said he intends to run for a full term in the next general election expected in 2021.
Maloughney, who retired from teaching three years ago, credits the support of Red Deer Catholic teachers for his victory.
Maloughney said his experience as teacher for 29 years, a school administrator for 14 years, and as a former president of the local Alberta Teachers Association, will serve him well as a trustee when critics are questioning the value of publicly funded Catholic education in Alberta.
“It gives you a wider perspective and a little more knowledge,” he said. “The quality of teachers is second to none, and as long as we continue to provide a quality faith-based education, we’ll do well.”
Red Deer Catholic Schools chair Anne Marie Watson said Maloughney’s commitment to Catholic education and knowledge of the education system make him a great addition to the school board.
“Certainly we know Rob’s work as a teacher and principal. He brings a wealth of knowledge of the education system coupled with faith-filled leadership,” Watson said. “Critics will always be there. Sometimes they are more vocal than at other times, but Albertans know that the value of publicly funded Catholic education.”
Maloughney has taught every grade from kindergarten to Grade 12, at six different schools in Red Deer.
Maloughney is a married father of three kids, all of whom are graduated of Notre Dame High School. He and his family are members of Sacred Heart Parish in Red Deer. Maloughney’s wife and oldest daughter are currently teachers in the Red Deer Catholic school system.