Paul is a self-employed naval architect, living and working in Old Lyme. He has a Master of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Michigan. As a member of Board of Education for the past 5 years he has served the last two as Vice Chairman and Chair of the Facilities Committee. He has been active in the community including the Hains Park Boathouse Committee and other initiatives. As a coach with Blood Street Sculls he has taught many kids from 11-18 the sport of rowing. Paul and his wife Candace have lived in Old Lyme for 11 years and have two children in District 18 schools.
Why are you running for the Region 18 Board of Education?
Kids. When we do the right things for our kids, they benefit and the community benefits.
When Mimi and I ran for the board 4 years ago we believed we could create a synergy between the board and the towns and eliminate the antagonism. I believe that with the help of the others on the board, in the town and in the community we have achieved that. We have created a clear direction for the District with the creation of our strategic plan. It is critical that we continue to create opportunities and support for the children in our town because not only does it help the children as they go out into the world but it helps the town in many ways as well. Old Lyme has benefited for a century or more from vibrancy and creativity of those living here. I believe that we can continue to improve our school system and our town and continue to do it with fiscal responsibility and low taxes.
Why should someone vote for you?
Simply this, I have delivered on the promises that I made campaigning four years ago; a positive relationship between the Board and the Town, high educational goals with a clear and measureable strategic plan, unbiased informed decisions, excellent maintenance of our facilities and low taxes.
While I did not do this alone, I have contributed to the attitude and environment that has made these goals a reality. A proven track record is an important consideration when electing someone to the Board of Education.
Presently the Board has a wide range of experience, education, background and opinions. We spend whatever time is required to discuss, debate and resolve a very wide range of issues. Our committees deal with their specific areas of expertise and bring creative solutions to the board table. Diversity on the present Board is one of its strengths; as all the candidates stated at the debate, it has nothing to do with political parties.
Over the past five years this district make incredible strides and achievements from creating a beautiful, highly functional and versatile high school to accolades for our academic, arts, technical and athletic excellence, and we have done all of that with some of the lowest budget increases in the state.
I have demonstrated dedication to the school board, education, our children and the taxpayer’s interest. The past two years I have been the Vice Chairman of the BoE, elected by my fellow board members, and Chairman of the Facilities Committee. We have had some of the lowest budget increases while experiencing some of our greatest achievements.
This Board has shown what an outstanding Board of Education can do. I have not heard a good reason to make a change. I would appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve on the Board of Education.