Address: 95 Lowelltown Road, Wiscasset

Occupation: Retired

Education: +14

Political History: Conservative Republican

Clubs/Organizations: U.S. military veteran, American Legion, ARRL Radio certified instructor, former Registered Maine Guide evaluator

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

I’m running because the Wiscasset school system needs accountability, transparency, and a responsive governmental body. Right now, we’re seeing increased spending with little return, and taxpayers are being left out of key decisions. We need to return to common sense — stop throwing money at problems and start demanding results.

Accountability is a top concern. Programs like place-based education are being implemented without clear performance benchmarks or cost analysis. We’re spending more per student than most nearby schools, but still falling short academically. For example, the school department currently can't hold a student back a grade, no matter their performance. That’s a problem. Top-down reforms like “No Child Left Behind” and “Race to the Top” haven't worked. In Maine, we’ve added bureaucracy without improving outcomes.

Technology also needs a hard look. Computers should support education — not replace it. In my view, they don’t belong in Pre-K through eighth grade. Screen time has hurt critical thinking, reading, and discipline. COVID-19 showed how unprepared the system was for real learning challenges. We need to refocus on strong academics, real teaching, and disciplined classrooms; not educational fads or social engineering.

Transparency is another major issue. According to Maine Title 20-A, school boards are responsible for records access, hiring the superintendent, setting curriculum policy, and more. But many decisions happen behind closed doors or are presented as done deals. The public deserves access to information at every step not just after the fact. That includes open access to meeting agendas, minutes, and budget details. The school board isn’t a rubber stamp; it’s a watchdog for the community.

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

Wiscasset’s enrollment is declining while spending rises. I support seeking a state grant to build a modern, consolidated high school with vocational and higher ed options to cut costs and improve quality. It’s time to closely review buildings, tuition, and extracurricular spending. These areas must be part of the solution.

Wiscasset schools have a proud past, but without strong leadership, we risk losing what made them great. I’m running to restore accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to the school board. Parents and taxpayers deserve a voice. I believe in open communication, data-driven decisions, and budgeting that supports student success while respecting taxpayers.