To the Editor:

I am pleased to support Jennifer Padilla, who is running for the Board of Education. Jenn is more than ready to serve on the BOE, having been a PTA president, a founding member of the Parent Educator Advisor Council, a member of the district’s Safety and Security Committee, and a member of the District Hiring Committee for the director of teaching and learning. She has attended, read the minutes, and watched the videos of countless BOE meetings and meetings of related boards. She has a well-rounded, extensive knowledge of the workings, responsibilities, and challenges of the BOE, and understands the relationship between the BOE and other town boards.

Jenn cares deeply about many aspects of our school system and about meeting the needs of all students. She also supports responsible spending. She welcomes feedback and questions, even if they challenge her own thoughts. Her Facebook page clearly spells out several ways she can be contacted. Jenn is friendly and welcoming, and is open to hearing and considering the perspectives of parents and all stakeholders.

Jenn is not only a listener, but a doer. When she sees something that needs to be done, she steps up to see how she can help. She has already thought about which BOE committees she can best contribute to. Moreover, she understands the extensive time and workload demands of the BOE and is ready to work hard. She is deeply invested in our community, and has also served on the Conservation Commission, coached her daughters’ basketball and softball teams, and helped with drama programs.

Jenn does her homework. She is prepared, constructive, and respectful. She is more than willing to work hard to earn your vote. I hope you will join me in voting for Jennifer Padilla on November 2.

Joan Plouffe

Newtown