Preserving The Excellence

Of Newtown’s Schools

To the Editor:

My wife and I chose Newtown as the place we wanted to raise our daughters. When we were looking to relocate from San Francisco, we spent a lot of time researching our options, and we chose Newtown purposefully due to the school system and the opportunities for our daughters to grow up in a place that cared for all of its citizens.

I want to use my experience running educational programs, monitoring budgets and working with diverse interest groups to ensure that our schools remain excellent and that we are spending the taxpayers’ money wisely. As a teacher, I know what works in the classroom. As a parent, I understand what children need, and as a taxpayer, I want to make sure we work together with the other boards and the public to make decisions that are right for the whole town.

My master’s degree in social work focused on the administration and planning of various governmental and private agencies, so I know how systems work. My second master’s in special education will be useful to the BOE, as I have direct experience in the most challenging area of education. I am currently working on my educational leadership certification as well. Being a life-long learner, I want to ensure that all the students of our schools see that learning never ends and that they can achieve whatever dreams they have. All we have to do is help them.

I would appreciate your vote this Tuesday for the Board of Education.

Sincerely,

Eric Paradis

85 Riverside Road, Sandy Hook                                October 26, 2009