Meet Cyndi Gerlach
Experienced Leadership | Trusted Advocacy | Putting Students First
My Story
For more than 20 years, Cyndi Gerlach has been a dedicated leader in North Vancouver's public education community, serving students, families, and schools through volunteer leadership, PAC involvement, North Vancouver School District committees, and elected service. Her commitment to public education began long before she was elected, rooted in the belief that strong schools are built through collaboration, listening, and a shared commitment to ensuring every learner has the opportunity to succeed.
First elected as a School Trustee in the District of North Vancouver in 2011, Cyndi has proudly served four consecutive terms. During her time on the Board of Education, she has:
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served as both Board Chair and Vice Chair
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contributed to budget oversight, strategic planning, long-term facilities planning, policy development, and governance.
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worked collaboratively with trustees, staff, educators, families, and community partners to address enrolment growth,
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advocated provincially for sustainable funding,
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modernized Board policies
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supported thoughtful long-term decisions that benefit students today and into the future
Cyndi has championed greater transparency in the School District's budget process, helping make financial decisions more accessible and understandable for families and the broader community while supporting responsible stewardship of public resources. She believes public trust is strengthened when communities understand how decisions are made and how resources are being used to support student success.
Cyndi has introduced more than 20 Board motions that have helped shape School District policy and governance. Her work has advanced initiatives supporting school environments related to:
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student well-being
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accessibility
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anti-ableism
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anti-racism
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mental health
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transparent governance
Cyndi believes strong public education is built on responsible governance, meaningful community engagement, and decisions that always put students first. She is committed to listening respectfully, asking thoughtful questions, and making informed decisions that balance the needs of students today with the long-term sustainability of the School District. Guided by integrity, collaboration, and accountability, she believes every decision should maintain the trust and confidence of families and the broader community.
As an autistic leader and parent, Cyndi brings valuable lived experience to her role. Her perspective strengthens her commitment to removing barriers, improving accessibility, and ensuring students of all abilities and backgrounds are welcomed, valued, and supported. She believes each child deserves to feel they belong and that it is the responsibility of the education system to create environments where every learner can thrive.
Beyond the Board Table
Cyndi continues to contribute to education and governance at the provincial and national levels. She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Autism Alliance of Canada and has served on numerous boards, committees, and advisory groups focused on strengthening governance, advancing inclusive public policy, and improving outcomes for children, youth, and families. She brings those experiences back to North Vancouver, helping ensure the School District benefits from broader conversations, collaborative partnerships, and leading practices while keeping the needs of local students, families, and the community at the centre of her work.
“Public education is a right. It’s a right to be educated, not a luxury. That to me is extremely important because it means we must find ways to reach every single child.”
~ Cyndi Gerlach
