To the Editor:

This evening I attended open house at Middle Gate Elementary School with the usual joy and excitement that any parent feels when they get to meet the teacher, sit at a tiny desk, and see the world from a child’s perspective for just a few minutes. As always, the building was spotless. The staff was professional, attentive, and answered all of our questions even though they have been working since early this morning. However, my blissful evening of positivity and support was interrupted by the political agenda of one of the Republican candidates for the Board of Education, Mrs Jenn Larkin.

I should preface this by saying I am not running for any position on the board nor am I affiliated with any political groups in Newtown or elsewhere — you should vote with your head and your heart. I am merely a parent who was taken aback by a Board of Education candidate combatively questioning the fourth grade teacher while wearing her own campaign T-shirt. Is that the type of person who, if elected to the Board of Education, would support the teachers and students of Newtown?

I believe quality candidates should understand when and where campaigning is appropriate. A tiny desk in an elementary school is not a suitable soapbox for your political agenda. The Kuzma/Larkin/Ramsey candidacy Facebook page claims: “We are committed to building a strong partnership between parents, students & educators.” However, based on your actions this evening, I do not believe that to be true. Teachers and students alike have been stretched beyond their limits throughout the pandemic and they need our support, compassion, and love. Your role this evening should have been that of an incredibly emphatic and resolute parent, not a campaigning politician. Simply meet the educator who will be encouraging and challenging your student for the upcoming school year and lay the foundations of trust and support. By this simple metric, Mrs Larkin, your actions demand immense improvement.

Rich Reynolds

Newtown