LETTER: At Times Like This, Guidance From Our School Committee Is Essential'

SUDBURY, MA — The following letter to the editor was submitted to Sudbury Patch:

Sudbury School Committee is at a tipping point. There are several reasons for this, but the focus of this letter is to help us pivot to a return to sound leadership. Many people are searching to understand how best to support the needs of our schools. At times like this, guidance from our School Committee is essential. Clarity, unity, and sincere communication are needed from the Committee to boost public confidence that our leaders are doing what’s best for children, families, and the overall community.

I'm writing about the Town Election on Monday, March 27, and specifically, the race for Sudbury School Committee with two open seats. We need committee members who will stand for education that strives to help all children reach their highest potential. Doing so in the most fiscally responsible manner requires critical thinking to analyze conflicting choices, professionalism and temperament to work as a team, and constant commitment to our children and community. This includes having a backbone to disagree and also the wisdom to stand by a decision once it’s made. Ultimately, Committee members have an obligation to speak as one voice, clearly and confidently, to the public. These are principles that should be reflected in the membership. We need to ensure that the scale tips so that effective decision making and teamwork become the hallmarks of this committee.

To affect this change, we have two fantastic candidates who are uniquely qualified through experience, knowledge, and character to fill these two seats on the Committee. We need their vision and capabilities to address our current and future challenges. Mandy Sim and Silvia Nerssessian both have extensive experience in education, an understanding of what constitutes an excellent school environment, and proven strength in long-term planning and fiscal management. They are also the candidates who truly understand the role of the School Committee. Silvia brings a commitment to our community and eight years of school board leadership experience that includes turning around a school that was going through difficult financial times and setting it up for future success. Mandy is a well-respected local business owner and current PTO co-chair who continues to dedicate significant effort to improving on the excellence of our schools.

I’m thrilled to support Mandy Sim and Silvia Nerssessian for Sudbury School Committee and hope that you will join me by voting for them on Monday, March 27, or by absentee ballot.

Warmly,

Lisa Gutch

Silver Hill Road