Address: 208 Foye Road

Occupation: Semi-Retired

Education: Wiscasset High School Graduate

Political History (Board, Committees, other): Budget Committee, Wiscasset Water District Trustee

Clubs/Organizations: Wiscasset Fire Department

Considering the office you are running for, what do you feel are the three most pressing issues (350 words or less):  

Growth. It was stated at the April school board meeting in public comment, that the school district is at a crossroads. It has been for several years. Does more effort needs to be put forth to either increase enrollment if current staffing levels remain, or downsize the district to a more affordable and productive level. It has been predicted that in a year or so, Wiscasset could be a non-receiver of State funding. I would rather see Wiscasset figure out a plan now, than be reactive if that does happen. 

Results. Raise the expectation of school administration and school staff. Maybe think more outside the box and work together to implement ideas that will provide measurable progress in student development. I know that certain testing procedures take place during the school year, but is that a fair assessment. While Maine ranks 41st in the country educationally, Wiscasset alone needs to do better. I want to see kids get every opportunity to succeed, but not at all costs if we can’t be successful. All students deserve the best we can provide. Where and what are those barriers. 

System Assessment. A review of every program should be completed annually to help identify any deficiencies that hinder that program from being successful. Are qualified staffing levels, team support, classroom content, and goals sufficient enough. Are those programs hitting the mark, and how do those areas that need improvement get fixed. Wiscasset has relatively low class sizes in some areas. Where do the weaknesses currently exist? There may already be something in place for this review that I am not aware of. 

Any other thoughts on why you are running or what you can bring to the office? (150 words or less):

First, I support education, 100%. With 28 years of experience working in this district as part of the Administrative Team, I am aware of some of the daily challenges and needs. With knowledge of the budget process, daily operations, years of planning projects, knowledge of the facilities, and managing two departments, I can continue to help move the district forward. In my tenure, I was responsible for managing roughly $45,000,000.00 taxpayer dollars. I want to continue supporting the school district that I graduated from as did my family and many other relatives and friends.