Questions & Comments
Funds in town are exceptionally tight this year. Would you support a Proposition 2 1/2 override to fund teachers and programs?
If a tax override was presented, I would draw upon past experience and evaluate each proposal on its merit. These merits must be in line with our unified goal of providing the highest quality education at the most reasonable cost. It has been my experience to approach any challenge armed with as many facts as possible. I am currently working my way through the existing school budget to gain a better perspective so that any fiscal decisions I contribute to will reflect an informed opinion. Any position I put forth on a tax override question will be stated with a comprehensive understanding in order to make decisive action.
What are your feelings on the current communications between different entities in our town government?
I would support any initiative or group that fosters communication - especially communication on budgets. I believe any mechanism to assist individual departments to be more efficient in the budgeting process is vital to our success. I have structured many budgets in my work experience where diverse groups using standardized budgeting tools and templates achieve high levels of productivity. I enthusiastically look forward to working closely with any group encouraging communication. I have a sincere desire to work collaboratively with the Board of Selectmen and the Finance Committee, as well as all other facets of our town's government. Collaboration is the only way that our community will weather the current economic reality. All stakeholders must work together to improve communication and rapidly implement all measures to reduce costs and increase efficiencies.
What is your perspective on the change-over to trimesters for the high school?
This is a valiant effort to open the schedules so that students have an opportunity in a specific subject matter that will fashion a well rounded student. AP class enrollment has seen a dramatic increase, and the electives offered will benefit many students who may not have had the scheduling space for some courses of interest. There are concerns that some parents have stated, such as early start time and transportation issues. I believe that we can all work together to address these concerns so that our children receive the highest quality education they can possibly get.
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