Brueggemann Explains Why He Is Running For The Zone B Concord Board Of Education Seat

My name is Don Brueggemann, and I am running for a seat on the school board in the district comprising wards 5, 6 & 7.

I have lived and worked in the Concord area for over 50 years, and my daughter attended Concord schools all 12 years. I was a founding member of what is now the Concord Food Co-op, and I managed The Bagel Works Café for 30 years. I was also a 3-term NH legislator representing this very district. In addition, my wife and I serve in varying capacities with several local organizations. Most importantly, Zane (our dog) and I are frequent users of Concord’s wonderful trail system.

Simply put: I love Concord and the Concord community!

Our school system is one of our most precious resources, and it is imperative that we invest in it appropriately. School facilities need to be safe and functional, but it is important to remember that it the teachers and faculty who make the critical difference.

I saw the importance of this firsthand when my daughter had challenges learning to read. During her time at Conant and Rundlett, reading specialists help her gain the skills and confidence she needed to ultimately become a solid student athlete at Concord High — with teachers, educational aides and coaches walking beside her every step of the way.

As we set priorities, we need to be mindful of the costs, and strive to get the greatest value for our investment. Concord has always been a city of economic diversity and that is one of our strengths. We are a poorer community if folks are priced out of their homes by high property taxes. And so the Concord School Board needs to listen to all the constituencies — students & parents, teachers, taxpayers and other community stakeholders — in order to find the balance that works.

Fifteen years ago, we invested in our elementary schools, and the new middle school will not be lacking for any amenities. But imagine buying a second house when you are only halfway through paying off your first mortgage. As a result, we are in for some very difficult budgets over the next few years.

Now is not the time to waiver in our commitment to our schools, and the story of how the Merrimack Valley school district dug themselves out of a $2 million hole provides an inspiring example. But clearly, they were able to accomplish that only with a decision-making process that was open, transparent, and inclusive. Everyone came together in an atmosphere of trust and give-and-take.

That, unfortunately, is not what we have in the Concord school board as it is currently composed.

The CSB needs someone who will help move them out of their insular, we-know-best mentality and open up the process so the community feels invested and empowered. I believe that I have the ability and temperament to do that if I am elected.

If you agree that we need a more open decision-making process, I hope that you will support me on November 3rd and join me in the important endeavor.