To the editor:
I am writing in support of my long-term friend and colleague Roberta Hanlon. This letter is my opinion and is not a representation of the opinion of WWRD Board of Education.
Roberta is running for re-election to the Westwood Board of Education. Roberta, a lifelong resident of Westwood, has committed her heart and soul to the support of the town she loves, most notably the children of her community.
Roberta doesn’t just talk the talk; she walks the walk. For more than a decade, Roberta has led by example serving as a trustee to the Westwood Regional School District. She understands the power of working collaboratively to achieve a common goal. Under her stewardship there has been a considerable and positive change to the Westwood Regional School District, including much-needed renovations and updates to our facilities. Curriculums have been remodeled to maximize our students’ capacity to succeed in a 21st-century world.
She understands that children learn in different ways and that educating them requires more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic, but encompasses the whole child. Roberta knows that our world needs the artist, musician, athlete, bookworm, technology guru, and others to work effectively and evolve. She balances all of our initiatives so that we may support the needs of all of our students.
She accomplished all of this with a deep commitment to fiscal balance. Roberta has continually looked for innovative ways to improve our efficiency and offset expenditures.
A few examples that occurred under her leadership include developing quality in-district special education programs, the installation of energy-efficient heating systems, and the purchase of in-house busing. Roberta understands the need to develop innovative solution to meet today’s challenges.
As a trustee, she has served as Board of Education president and vice president as well as chairing a number of committees. As a certified board member, she understands that the best way to serve her community is to be a fully informed, present, and educated trustee. You will find her at the science fair, concerts, back to school nights, sports events, etc.
Roberta knows a trustee sometimes has to make tough and unpopular decisions. She recognizes that there is always room for improvement and is fully committed to ensuring that the students, families, and community receive safe and effective education.
Because of this, I support Roberta Hanlon for the Westwood Board of Education Trustee.