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AMANDA
AMARAL
Focused on Students.
Committed to Public Education
WHY AMANDA ?
FOCUSED ON STUDENTS. PROVEN LEADERSHIP. A STRONG VOICE FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION.
Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Amanda is a proud graduate of the Sunshine Coast Alternative School and School District 46. She understands firsthand the importance of strong public education and the impact local schools have on families and communities.
Amanda is currently serving her second term as a Trustee with the Sunshine Coast Board of Education and has served as Board Chair since 2020. In that role, she has led through some of the most challenging and complex years in public education — balancing advocacy for students and families while navigating increasing demands on public education, financial pressures, and the evolving needs of students, families, staff, and communities.
With over 20 years of experience as a BC Public Servant, Amanda brings extensive knowledge of public policy, governance, accountability, and decision-making processes. She understands how to work effectively with government, build productive relationships, and advocate for the unique needs of the Sunshine Coast.
Amanda is known for:
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Deep community roots and strong local connections
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Consistent advocacy for students, families, and public education
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Strong governance leadership
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Steady, respectful leadership during difficult conversations
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The ability to navigate conflict while keeping the focus on outcomes
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An action-oriented approach to problem solving
As both a trustee and community volunteer, Amanda has worked to keep the Board connected to the people it serves. She brings a strong commitment to accountability and meaningful engagement, and believes good governance requires listening to different perspectives, asking difficult questions, and keeping the focus on what will best serve students and public education.
Amanda has consistently advocated for local voices to be heard, both within the district and through her work with the Province. Her focus remains on supporting student success, strengthening public education, and ensuring Sunshine Coast schools have the resources they need.
Community and people are at the heart of Amanda's work.
AMANDA AMARAL
Amanda was born and raised in Kapilin, on the lands and waters of the shíshálh people in Pender Harbour. She now lives in Ch'kw'elhp, on the lands and waters of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw in Gibsons.
She lives in Gibsons with her partner, Judith, and their children. They are a blended family of two mums, five kids, and a border collie! They are a family where everyone belongs, and where diversity is truly a strength.
Amanda brings a unique combination of experience, education, and community leadership to her work as a School Board Trustee. Her background in governance and government gives her a strong understanding of how to lead, collaborate, and get things done.
Amanda has 20 years of experience as a public servant with the Government of British Columbia and currently works as a Director with the Ministry of Children and Family Development. She understands how government works, how decisions are made, and how to move initiatives forward.
Amanda has also contributed more than 20 years to community service, serving on community boards and volunteering with local organizations, including the Town of Gibsons Board of Variance and Girl Guides.
Amanda comes from a family with deep roots in the labour movement and brings that perspective to her work in public education and public service.
Her work in government, education, and the community is grounded in a simple belief: strong communities are built when people have a voice and a place to belong.
