Write In Ellen Joachim for LSRHS School Committee

I am writing to support Ellen Joachim as a write in candidate for the LSRHS school committee. Having two graduates of LSRHS, along with a freshman, and an 8th grader, I am committed to electing someone who can thoughtfully and brilliantly analyze the issues, use their established relationships to support excellent communication, and be willing to step outside of their current position to fairly evaluate all perspectives. I cannot think of anyone who meets this criteria better than Ellen Joachim.

Ellen has been an integral part of the schools as a volunteer in the classroom, on the PTO and CPO, as a participant on hiring committees, and as a member of the SPS school committee for as long as I can remember. What I appreciate most about Ellen, is her willingness to dig deep, roll up her sleeves, and do the work. She is fearless in asking difficult questions and challenging what may not make sense to her, while at the same time, being open to listening to new ideas and welcoming other perspectives. She carefully weighs options, uses her wealth of experience and history with the schools, and establishes her position with intent. There is nothing impulsive about Ellen; she is reasoned, deliberate, and pays careful attention to all stakeholders and issues that could have a potential impact on those she consistently shows up to serve: families with children in our schools.

As a former LS student herself who chose to return to Sudbury after attending Columbia College and Harvard Law School, Ellen has shown her commitment to this community by consistently showing up in service. Through her sons and her myriad relationships with various constituents in town, she competently understands the issues we currently face - school safety, school start time, and cost sharing among the three districts, to name three - and knows how to deconstruct them in order to best address them.

Most importantly, when I have had questions or concerns, Ellen has been available to listen and responds only after having a thorough understanding of the issue I have brought to her. I find her open, committed, and collaborative. I have no doubt that these same qualities will serve our community on the LSRHS school committee. Please write in Ellen Joachim on Monday, March 26th. Her name won’t be on the ballot - but she will make a difference if elected.

Respectfully submitted,

Christina Granahan

Shadow Oak Drive