To the Editor:

Our family relocated to Connecticut three years ago and decided to buy a home in Newtown based on the reputation of its public schools. Our two girls attend Hawley and we are very pleased with the quality and attention they receive. My wife and I are enormous supporters of public education and we believe in the simple fact that the strength of the community is reflected in its schools. It’s with this belief that we offer our enthusiastic endorsement of Eric Paradis for Newtown Board of Education.

Eric Paradis approaches this position as both an educator and a father, as his children attend Sandy Hook Elementary School. Eric teaches high school special education in Trumbull, and has worked diligently as a volunteer on Newtown School Board’s strategic plan development last year.

Eric brings to this position a level of administrative expertise that will allow him to manage through the complex problem-solving the Board of Education faces. Eric’s formal education and years of teaching experience will also provide the day-to-day knowledge that ensures Eric will make an immediate impact and positive contribution to our children’s education. Additionally, Eric is pragmatic and realistic in his approach to the current challenges we face in educating our sons and daughters, and is sure to be an excellent addition to the board.

E. Chandler and Nancy Gotschlich

8 Teachers Ridge Road, Sandy Hook                       October 28, 2009