To the Editor:

It is with high regard that we endorse Eric Paradis for the Newtown Board of Education. We have had the privilege of knowing Mr Paradis on a personal level for the past four years. He has been a resident in Newtown for five years and his two children attend Sandy Hook School. Mr Paradis cares about the future of our schools and the education of our children. Since the spring of 2009, Mr. Paradis has been attending Board of Education meetings and is up to date with the successes and challenges facing our school district.

His broad knowledge will be an asset to our Board of Education. Mr Paradis holds two master’s degrees; one in special education and one in social work. Currently, he is pursing an administrative credential in educational leadership. He has the ability to interpret educational items from various perspectives. Mr Paradis participated in the Strategic Planning Committee Team last school year. As a part of the team, Mr Paradis developed the idea of personal success plans for all ninth grade students at Newtown High School.

Please join us on November 3 voting for Eric Paradis for the Newtown Board of Education. We believe Mr Paradis holds the skills to lead our students into the future.

John and Jill Gonski

51 Chipmunk Trail, Sandy Hook                              October 18, 2009