To the Editor:
Reflecting back on my nearly eight years of service on the Region 18 Board of Education, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished with the support and encouragement of the broader Old Lyme and Lyme community.
As I approach my final month on the Board, I am optimistic and excited to support four candidates with exactly the backgrounds needed as the Board engages in strategic planning and a review of potential facility upgrades to four schools that were last substantially updated nearly two decades ago: educational credentials and a focus on children. Life-long educators Martha Shoemaker (retired teacher), Marisa Calvi-Rogers (doctorate in education, retired principal) and Alexander Lowry (current teacher), along with Jason Kemp (family relations counselor, CT Judicial Branch), will bring over 90 years of collective public service in support of children to the Board. Alexander and Jason are also the parents of current R18 students.
We need smart, empathetic, and focused leaders who view challenges as opportunities and can widen the realm of possible solutions through creative problem-solving. Our small town needs Board of Education members who understand public education and the needs of children and families, as well as the importance of incorporating into their decisions the wide variety of viewpoints held by our community members.
I strongly encourage you to elect these four Democratic candidates to represent our Old Lyme community on the Region 18 Board of Education.
Sincerely,
Jean Wilczynski, CFP®,
Old Lyme.
Editor’s Note: The author currently serves as treasurer of the Regional School District 18 Board of Education.
RSD 18 is the jewel in Old Lyme’s crown. Its excellence attracts young families to Old Lyme in an environment where other school districts are seeing declining enrollment. The excellent school system bolsters our real estate values and creates a community of smart, caring and responsible citizens. Old Lyme boasts more than its fair share of nationally recognized musicians, artists, engineers and oarsmen. RSD18 is a good deal for taxpayers. Over the last two years, budgets have been virtually flat, with an increase of only 0.06%. Don’t take risks with our treasured schools. Choose the candidates who have dedicated their lives to education and have the expertise to continue the tradition of excellence. Vote Lowry, Shoemaker, Calvi-Rogers and Kemp on row A.