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To the Editor:
I am writing to express my intent to run for reelection to the Board of Education. It is my strong belief that I am well-qualified for the position and I would like to share my qualifications and commitment to the community and education system.
My four years of service on the Board of Education (two of which as Chair) have provided me with valuable experience and insight into the challenges and opportunities facing our school district and town. During my tenure, I have consistently demonstrated dedication to improving the communications between the BOE and parents, students, the town (Board of Selectmen and Boards of Finance), Faculty, Administrators, and staff.
In current times when divisiveness tries to dominate civil discourse, I am reminded that it’s not our unanimous agreement that unites us; it’s our willingness to accept our differences that does so. Disagreeing with civility is perhaps the best path to better solutions that serve the community. I never forget that we are all neighbors and with that. I recognize that we agree far more than we disagree with one another.
I currently serve as Chair of the Board of Ed, Chair of the PreK-8 Building Committee (responsible for $57m school renovations), and attend all meetings of the Policy & Communications and Finance & Facilities Committees. In addition to that, when time permits, I also attend meetings of the LYSB Prevention Coalition and LEARN. I have attended several CABE conferences and actively participated in various continuing education classes with focus on improving communication, understanding FOIA policies and laws, and perfecting working relationships with superintendents.
While serving on the Board of Education, I have gained a deep understanding of the policies, budgetary considerations, and regulations that govern our school system. With this experience, I actively onboard new Board Members to make their transition as smooth and productive as possible.
I am deeply committed to ensuring that our students receive the best education possible. This includes students who have aspirations other than college after graduation. There are seven types of genius and it’s the responsibility of the schools to help children realize their potential regardless of how they best learn. The quote, “Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its entire life thinking it’s stupid” comes to mind and our schools should keep that ever in mind when planning curricula and teaching our children.
I have consistently advocated for responsible budget management to ensure that taxpayer dollars are allocated wisely. I don’t see our budget as “government funds” or “town funds” but as “taxpayer funds” and I do my best to treat it as though it’s coming out of my own pocket. I keep value and prudent spending at the top of my priority list.
Continuing to maintain an open line of communication with parents, teachers, and community members, accommodates input and feedback via public comment and email communication. I encourage public comment, Board discussion of comments, and Board action on all comments made.
I encourage diversity because diverse experiences and diversity of thought provide sound foundations for reaching better solutions.
In conclusion, my experience, dedication, and commitment to improving our education system, along with my demonstrated record of effective leadership, make me well-qualified for reelection to the Board of Education. I believe that a strong and informed board is essential for the continued growth and success of our schools and the future of our community.
I would be honored to continue serving our community and working towards a brighter future for our students. I kindly ask for the support of the community in my reelection campaign, and I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving our community’s educational needs.
Sincerely,
Steven Wilson
Old Lyme
Wilson is currently Chair of the Region 18 Board of Education
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Editor’s note: Wilson requested an update of this letter on Oct. 17 to correct a grammar error and to add this sentence: “I have attended several CABE conferences and actively participated in various continuing education classes with focus on improving communication, understanding FOIA policies and laws, and perfecting working relationships with superintendents.”