To the Editor:

Rebekah Harriman-Stites’ announcement that she is running for the 106th State Legislative District seat for Newtown is welcome news. She has demonstrated her dedication to education and public service, and I am confident that she will approach her position in Hartford with the same passion and dedication that she shows in her work for the Newtown Board of Education.

I have known Rebekah for almost ten years, first when she was PTA President and later in our work together on the Board of Education, where I currently serve as chair (though, to be clear, I write this letter as an individual). As long as I have known her, Rebekah has worked determinedly for the betterment of Newtown’s schools. She does not shy away from hard conversations, being able to contribute thoughtfully and bringing others to see the value of her position. Just as she champions the policies and values that serve Newtown students, I know she will be a strong proponent for Newtown’s residents’ interests at the state level.

Rebekah is amazingly industrious. She has served as the Board’s vice chair and on numerous committees — the District Safety Committee, the Contract Negotiations Committee, the CIP/Finance Committee. She chaired a Superintendent Search Committee and currently chairs the Policy Committee, all while working a day job.

Rebekah leaves no doubt that she will work hard and fight for Newtown’s interests.

Michelle Embree Ku

28 Platts Hill Road, Newtown February 12, 2020