Board Of Ed Candidate:

Why I Am Running

To the Editor:

In order for a representative government to work effectively for its constituents, there needs to be one underlying factor: effective communication between those being represented and those who have been elected. When this basic principle is no longer adhered to, the lack of communication creates a complete breakdown of the process, as those elected are no longer representing but dictating their own will. When elected officials no longer are willing to discuss the issues with those who put them in authority, no matter how trivial, constituents will become aggravated and disillusioned with the process.

Over the last few months, I’ve been witnessing this type of lack of communication between the Board of Education and its constituents. Whether it’s the issue of the owner-operators, special education, or the Eas, I’ve witnessed one parent after another go in front of the BOE and plead their cases on deaf ears. I can see the frustration of individuals, who continue to feel as if they are being ignored, or worse, feeling as if their opinions are discarded. This situation has gotten so out of hand, that even State Representative Chris Lyddy, and State Representative DebraLee Hovey had to present in front of the school board to voice their concerns over the lack of action around special education. Over the last few months, decision after decision has been executed in a vacuum with no regard to those who matter most, the voters and the parents whom they represent. Even though the board might disagree on what constituents are proposing, as elected officials it is there duty to engage and discuss the issues.

I hope by being elected to the BOE, that I will be available not only to hear, but to discuss and debate the problems facing our community and our schools with the parents. I would accomplish this by having at least one weekend afternoon a month to sit down and hear parents concerns and to discuss the issues. Having two children that will be attending the public schools, it is in my own interest to discuss these issues with others and to come up with meaningful solutions.

Cody McCubbin

13 Arlyn Ridge Road, Newtown                          September 14, 2011