District Education Council (DEC) members bring local knowledge of the education issues in their communities and the interests of their constituents into broader education system discussions.  Your work will help students achieve, succeed and lead happy, productive lives as a result of your input into the environment and culture of learning. To be a candidate in the May 14th election your nomination papers must be submitted by April 13, 2012.  Newly elected DEC members will begin their four year term of office in July and become an important part of shaping the goals and governance of the new school districts.  You can learn more about the role of DEC, the responsibilities and the types of meetings and consultations by visiting the new DEC website: www.decnb.ca .  If you are interested in running for a position on the DEC you can find more information about the nomination process by contacting the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer at 1-800-308-2922 or by visiting the Elections NB website at www.electionsnb.ca .