To the Editor:

Our Board of Education is at a critical crossroads. We are at a point where many people in the community have lost their trust in board members. I would certainly put my name on that list!

The Democrats have nominated three incredible candidates for election to the Board of Education, and I have no doubt that they are exactly the change we need to transform the board and move Newtown forward.

Today, I am writing in support of Eric Paradis. Eric’s experience and commitment make him an ideal candidate for the Board of Education.

With a background in special education and currently working as an administrator, Eric has a unique perspective to understand many of the challenges facing our Board of Education. His experience as a member of the Education Strategic Planning group allowed him to be fully engaged in the issues facing our district and the plans to address them. As a soccer coach and a parent, Eric is on the frontlines, hearing on a regular basis what is going on in our schools. It is time to elect people to the Board of Education who have educational experience that will help guide their decisions. Eric has that experience.

Eric Paradis has also proven his commitment to Newtown, and to education issues. His service to the town on the Charter Revision Commission, for example, shows that he is committed to making a difference. Eric has been attending Board of Education meetings for years, speaking out on issues and offering not only opinions, but suggestions and feedback. As a fellow member of the Newtown Democratic Town Committee, Eric has impressed me for years with his willingness to step up to a task and work hard to get the job done. He is fully committed to everything he decides to be a part of, and I have no doubt that he will be this committed to the Board of Education as well.

No one can predict exactly which issues will face the next Board of Education. A candidate’s stance on a current issue isn’t nearly as important as their ability to make decisions as we move forward with new issues. We need candidates who understand the educational system enough to ask the right questions, gather information, look at situations with an open-mind, gather feedback from constituents, and work for the best interests of our children and educators. From curriculum to transportation, from special education to administrative responsibilities, Eric Paradis has the experience and commitment we need.

Please join me in voting for the experience and commitment we need on the Board of Education. Vote for Eric Paradis on November 8!

Sincerely,

Sarah Hemingway

10 Overlook Knoll, Sandy Hook                                 October 16, 2011