Investing in Public Education Matters

I am the product of a public school education, graduating from Roger Ludlowe High School in 1970. I entered the teaching profession after graduating college – and later obtained my master’s degree in religious education – because I wanted to have a lasting impact on the lives of young people. And even though I left the profession after four years of teaching high school to pursue a corporate career, I still to this day consider myself an “educator” in the best sense of the word.

As a candidate for the Board of Finance, I firmly believe that education is the greatest single investment we can make as a town, and it is vital that we keep it strong. It attracts families, drives revenue for local businesses, and can help drive additional economic development. Currently, public education comprises over 60% of the town’s operational budget, and approximately 50% of the town’s June 2025 general obligation bond issue of $44 mm has been earmarked for school capital funding for items such as roof, boiler, and window replacements as well as additional A/C and other much needed renovations. In addition, the town’s 10-year capital plan allocates over one-half of the total bonding needs to schools.

I fully support these significant financial investments that the town has committed for education. I also understand and support the need to: (a) keep teacher and staff salaries and benefits competitive; (b) deliver high quality education programs; and (c) keep up with current maintenance needs. This last item is especially significant, given the increasing age of many of our schools, and needs to be fully funded – not deferred.

If elected, I look forward to weighing in on these critical education spending priorities during my six-year term.