To the Editor:

After the recent controversies in our school system, I considered running for the Board of Education, but when I heard that Chris Gilson was to be a candidate, I decided to back him instead. Why? Because nothing is more important to me than my child’s welfare, and I believe that Dr Gilson will do a better job in that role than just about anyone else. I have been acquainted with Dr Gilson for several years now, and know him to be an open-minded man, who both values and understands the balance between the needs of families and the expertise of professionals.

As a scientist working in the commercial world, Dr Gilson is used to evaluating data, opinions, and beliefs in an objective and critical mind set. As a father, I have seen Chris’ passion, dedication, and drive to guide his children through the complexities of balancing knowledge, virtues, and personal integrity. In my experience, Chris has always listened to the needs, wants and opinions of others, and evaluated them in light of his own knowledge and the hard data he is presented with.

In short, he is a good, intelligent man with an open mind and a keen, personal understanding of education. He has directly benefitted from intense education, works within the real-world of business, and puts the welfare of his children and others above everything else. I have no hesitation, whatsoever, in supporting Dr Chris Gilson for the Newtown School Board.

Thomas L. Evans MA, MPhil, DPhil, MIFA

Sandy Hook