Anne Fortier Shares Her Vision for Wakefield Schools

Education has transformed my life. I am the first in my family - including parents, aunts, uncles, and my many older cousins - to attend college. I graduated from college and eventually earned a masters degree in counseling psychology from the University of Wisconsin Madison. Throughout my educational experience my world view widened, my ability to synthesize complex ideas expanded, and I gained skills that have helped me to work with diverse community members more effectively.

A significant portion of my education took place in public schools. Public schools are the great equalizer. They are the foundation from which an informed and civic minded society develops. The strength of a community is largely based upon the strength of its public schools. Strength equates to stable financial resources, an engaged student body, supportive parents and community members, and visionary leadership.

For several years I have worked in education. I began in higher education - first in admissions and student services, then moved into administrative positions. As Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at a liberal arts college in Madison Wisconsin, I was responsible for a multimillion dollar budget and a staff of several professionals. At the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, I managed several school-wide systems, advised students, created programs that enhanced the student experience, and regularly collaborated with faculty,

Currently, I am a high school guidance counselor at a large suburban high school. This is my dream job! My work’s purpose is to help students thrive academically, socially, and personally. I am keenly aware of the needs students present in school and how schools must respond to them. I also work closely with parents and administrators to create plans to support students individually and in groups. I have a strong understanding of how public schools operate and am familiar with the laws and regulations that they must abide by.

Finally, I am the parent of two students in the Wakefield Public Schools – an 8th grader and a high school sophomore. As a parent, I have high expectations of our schools. However, I am also a taxpayer and want to make sure that the resources requested and allocated are thoroughly considered and reviewed. Both immediate and long term needs must be evaluated and this is often a delicate balance. If elected, I believe that my educational and fiscal experiences will significantly and positively inform my decision making.

My vision of Wakefield Public Schools is that each student will not only have access to high quality teaching and learning experiences, but that they will be engaged and excited with school. I believe that the accumulation of my life and professional experiences have prepared me to be a strong, thoughtful member of the Wakefield School Committee. I promise to take this position very seriously and look forward to the work this committee will require. It will be an honor to serve the families and community members of Wakefield. Please vote on April 25th.

Meet Anne Fortier at her Campaign Reception on Thursday, March 23rd at the Americal Civic Center from 7-9pm. All are welcome.