To the Editor:crusond_boe@newtown.k12.ct.us about any issues or comments. Thank you for your support.

My name is Daniel Cruson, Jr, and I am running for re-election to my seat on the Board of Education this fall. I was born and raised in Newtown, going through the Newtown school system. During college I spent holidays and summers working in the Newtown Public Schools Central Office with then-Assistant Superintendent Alice Jackson. During that time I learned about all aspects of the work done to keep the district running smoothly. After college, I spent time in Boston and Albany at different jobs, but when it came time for my oldest to enter kindergarten we came back to Newtown, because we knew the school system was incredible.

Once we came back to town I knew I wanted to once again get involved with the school district, but I wasn't sure how I would best be able to serve. When the opportunity to join the Board of Education arose, I jumped on it. I joined at a time where big decisions were before the board and have been glad to be a part of them, first the school closing and then school start time. The first I came into partway through, but I made sure to gather lots of information so I could properly analyze and understand. The second I was able to jump in with both feet, joining the committee from the beginning so I could examine and discuss all aspects, instead of waiting to hear the summary version when it reached the board.

I am a very analytical person. For all decisions I start without a predetermined outcome and absorb all the data I can find to form the best path forward. I also have no problem asking hard questions and challenging assumptions as I work through all of the possibilities or when I am trying to make sure that all avenues have been examined by others. This is something that I hope to be able to continue through a full term on the Board of Education. There are some huge issues coming down the road for the town and our schools and I want to be able to continue to work collaboratively to ensure that the town continues to be known for its high level of education.

I encourage people to reach out to me at any time via e-mail at 

Daniel Cruson, Jr

30 Dodgingtown Road, Newtown         September 27, 2017