Pickering · October 26, 2026

Education Is My Life's Work.

Dr. Andre De Freitas for DCDSB Trustee · Pickering · October 26, 2026

Dr. D Durham — DCDSB Trustee 2026. Faith. Education. Community. Future.
Faith.
Education.
Community.
Future.
Strong Schools. Brighter Futures.
Dr. Andre De Freitas with his two sons outside a Pickering school

Meet Dr. D

Dr. Andre De Freitas is 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 $25M+ 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, Andre is running to bring professional-grade expertise to the school board.

This is not a career move. This is a calling.

25+
Years in Education
EdD
Doctorate in Leadership
$25M+
Budgets Managed
First-Gen
Student to Doctorate

Why I'm Running

Our children deserve a trustee who understands education systems from the inside. Someone who has spent their career building student success, not just talking about it.

Expert Leadership

With a doctorate in education and 25 years of experience, I bring professional-grade expertise to the board table. Not politics. Results.

AI-Ready Schools

AI is transforming every industry. Our schools need a trustee who has built AI education platforms and understands how to prepare students for the future.

Every Student Matters

From financial aid to mental health to accessibility, my career has been about making sure no student falls through the cracks.

My 5 Priorities for DCDSB

  1. 1

    Expert Leadership at the Board Table

    Bring professional education experience, data-driven decision-making, and real accountability to every board meeting.

  2. 2

    Preparing Students for the AI Era

    Champion responsible AI integration, digital literacy curriculum, and teacher training so our students lead the future, not fear it.

  3. 3

    Student Mental Health & Wellbeing

    Invest in school counsellors, early intervention, and trauma-informed support. Not awareness campaigns. Actual resources.

  4. 4

    Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency

    Apply $25M+ in budget management experience to ensure every education dollar delivers maximum impact for students.

  5. 5

    Equity, Access & Inclusion for Every Child

    Ensure students of every background, ability, and circumstance receive the support they need to succeed.

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

Join the Campaign

Whether you can knock on doors, share a post, or put up a lawn sign, every bit of support matters.

Or email us directly: campaign@drddurham.ca

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