Kong brings diverse resume
I am writing to express my support for the re-election of Dr. Xuan Kong to the School Committee. I have known Xuan for over five years, before he first moved to Acton, as we work for the same medical company.
Xuan is a former college professor, who cares deeply about education. I have seen first hand his attention to detail, analytical approach, and drive for excellence. As a Conant parent, I believe his diverse educational background is much appreciated. We live in a multicultural town with a diverse student population. Our School Committee members should be reflective of this diversity and their different viewpoints valued.
Xuan is also a hard worker and has contributed greatly to the School Committee these last three years. He is not easily replaced. I urge you to vote for Xuan Kong for re-election to the School Committee. —Rainer Maas, Tupelo Way, Acton
Coppolino has perspective
Michael Coppolino should be reelected to the School Committee. Mike’s perspective has been invaluable to the committee for 12 years, and this experience helps provide him with a keen perspective.
Mike is a mathematics teacher in another town’s school system, and he has served as a coach of youth sports in Acton for many years. His understanding of young people and their needs combined with his unsurpassed passion for education is clearly evidenced by the positive results of his tireless efforts to serve our community.
His three children have all gone through the school system and he has done his utmost to help guide the committee’s work in order to maintain a level of excellence in our school system. Mike would like to continue to do so. His dedication and qualifications are more than impressive.
I urge you to vote for Mike Coppolino for School Committee. — Wayne MacDonald, Independence Road, Acton
Cotter brings new ideas
On March 30, I will vote for Brendan Cotter for School Committee. I have known Brendan for 19 years and have had the opportunity to get to know him both professionally and personally. As the community continues to deal with a difficult economy, I believe that Brendan will bring creative and innovative ideas to the School Committee to help Acton maintain the high standard of education our schools have become known for. He cares about our schools and the town, and I know with three children in the school system, he will work hard to ensure that our schools are the best they can be for the students of Acton. I believe that he will be a great asset to our town as a member of the School Committee and will work to preserve what Acton has worked so to hard to become, a wonderful community with great schools.
It is so important that we utilize our ability to be part of the decision process of what happens in our town and with our schools. Please vote on March 30. — Cheryl Witty, Freedom Farme Road, Acton
Kong is a team player
I support the re-election of Xuan Kong to the School Committee and encourage others to vote for him.
I know Xuan when performing community service with him. Xuan is a good team player. He listens to others carefully and respects different opinions. When a specific issue arises, he always strives to find all the relative details and sort them out to make an informed decision. I supported him three years ago when he ran for School Committee first time, because I believed his enthusiasm, dedication, and competence for the job.
After being elected, Xuan worked tirelessly on various issues. What impressed me most was Xuan’s positive impact on Acton Chinese community in a special town meeting for the financial health of Acton school system. During the meeting, a vote was held to decide whether to return the town reserve as one-time tax deduction or to save the fund for future budget shortage. This issue deeply divided Acton Chinese community. Some members questioned why the expense of school system always exceeded the allowed increase of tax, while others believed a good school system needed every penny it could get.
Xuan sent several e-mails with detailed budget analysis on where the money was spent in Acton schools. He tried to prove to the Chinese community that Acton school system was efficient comparing to the neighboring towns that had similar level of performance. He emphasized the importance of keeping balance between adequate social services (to children, to seniors, to those in need) and our own self interest (of a lower taxes). Although Xuan did not convince everyone, his insightful analysis nevertheless helped many voters in Acton Chinese community to make an informed decision.
Today, I am glad to see that Xuan’s diligent work and excellent contribution are widely recognized by other members of Acton community. I was thrilled to read the praise from Acton resident Jon Benson: “Xuan has spent countless hours over the past three years dealing with all of the complicated and difficult issues the School Committee has faced,” and from Xuan’s committee colleague John Peterson: “Kong is exemplary on the panel.”
In these difficult times, we especially need Xuan to continue his excellent service to make our school system more efficient and improve its performance. Please vote with me on March 30 for Xuan Kong. —Lining Wu, Acton
Cotter rallies people
I want to encourage all of the Acton voters to go out on 31 March and vote for Brendan Cotter. I have known Brendan for many years, as a coach, as a friend, as a family man and as a successful entrepreneur. Spending a number of years in the Navy after graduating from Annapolis, I have seen few individuals with great leadership qualities, Brendan is one of those great leaders. His uncompromising attitude to do the right thing for the children of this community is what we need in the school committee.
His ability to rally people around a cause and bring a compassionate sense of family and community is refreshing. Brendan has always been a strong contributor in all the groups and boards that he has been involved with. His articulate manner and intelligence to understand the complex issues that face all of us during these difficult times are key to the success of the Acton School Committee.
I currently have four boys in the Acton school system and although they have had a great experience, I still believe there is room for improvement. Brendan Cotter is the perfect candidate, his candor and positive attitude is infectious. He will represent the Acton community well and will tirelessly work on the issues that need the most attention. I am proud that he is willing to give back and be part of the Acton School Committee, let’s take him up on his offer and Vote Cotter on March 30. — Vic Otero, Torrington Lane, Acton
Cavaretta, veteran’s choice
I’m writing to remind all Veterans in the town to come out and vote for Dean Cavaretta for Selectman. I’ve known Dean for many years and he has always been a strong supporter of our servicemen and veterans. I have spoken with him recently and we agreed that the support for veterans in the town needs to be stronger.
Remember the days when we had strong celebrations for Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. Those in recent years have been much smaller events and less focused on those who served.
Please join me in supporting Dean on March 30th by voting for him for Selectman. — Jim Ettwein (Vice Commander, Edwards-Quimby American Legion Post 284), Acton
Coppolino has passion
We wish to extend an invitation to all voters to allow Michael Coppolino to continue his excellent work on the Acton School Committee. We have had the privilege of knowing Michael for over 30 years as a family man, business leader, teacher, volunteer, community leader and friend. Michael has a passion for the Town of Acton, our schools and just as important, all the citizens within our community. Michael is always willing to tackle the tough issues with a balanced approach and analytical thought process.
Now on his second stint as an educator, after a few years of building a very successful training company, Michael understands the demands of the classroom environment along with administrative issues that occur in education. With his many volunteer activities in the town he has a strong sense of community. He also has a compassionate and thoughtful understanding of the challenges facing many of our senior citizens.
Michael’s combination of experiences within our town have served our community and Michael well in facing the many challenges our School Committee deals with on a regular basis. We encourage you to support Michael, allowing him to continue to be a strong voice of reason. — Tom and Cheryl Beaudoin, Northbriar Road, Acton
Harting-Barrat has track record
On next Tuesday, March 30, I encourage you to vote for Pam Harting-Barrat for Board of Selectmen.
I have known Pam for many years and I have come to trust and to respect her voice when it involves local issues no matter what committee she is serving on.
Pam has a great track record having served on the Board of Selectmen (2000-2003), the School Committee (1988-2000) as chairperson twice, the Planning Board (1980-1988) again twice as chair, and other committees focusing in on Health care and the Environment.
Pam’s renewed energy makes her a formidable candidate who will serve on the Board of Selectmen with pride and distinction.
I trust her judgment and her commitment to learn, to research, to listen and to decide what is best for Acton.
I place my hope for a better Acton now and in the future in the hands of Pam Harting-Barrat for Board of Selectmen. — Sal Lopes, Acton
Kong understands parties
I am writing this letter to support School Committee member Xuan Kong, who is running for re-election. I have known Xuan Kong for several years through our volunteer work as parents at Gates School. As a past PTO chair and auction chair at Gates School, I always knew that I could turn to Xuan for help and support whenever needed.
Not only is Xuan willing to step up and do the work necessary to help PTO events run successfully, but he also understands the importance of the work that all the PTOs in town are doing. Xuan’s initial involvement at Gates School spurred him on to serve the Acton-Boxborough community at large as a member of the School Committee. During his years on the School Committee he has maintained his participation at Gates in addition to wholeheartedly dedicating himself to improvement throughout the Acton-Boxborough school system.
Xuan has a very good understanding of how hard the teachers, administration, staff, and parents work in this town to bring such a fabulous education to our children. Xuan’s loyalty and dedication to the interests of not just the Acton-Boxborough schools but also to the community at large are the reasons I am voting for Xuan Kong for School Committee on March 30. — Lucinda Sears, Westside Drive, Acton
Coppolino brings much
Mike Coppolino is the right person to re-elect to the AB School Committees.
His experience gained in holding office for four straight terms is valuable enough in these tough budget times; but he brings much more.
He is an accomplished teacher in the classroom; a parent – he and his wife have shepherded his three children through the AB System; has been an entrepreneur in the field of education; he has involved himself in coaching and working with young people on the recreation fields of this town; he helped to administer youth leagues to raise money and manage a safe and growing experience; an objective voice – without children in the system – to pursue strategies that will bode well for the future of the system.
As successful as our schools have been, there are challenges. We need to find new revenue streams that do not depend so heavily on volatile local and state taxes. Professional administrators need to focus on the continued involvement of all Acton (and Boxborough) residents in the support of this successful School system. We must continue to proactively welcome all citizens to full participation in the education of the total child – in and out of the classroom.
Mike Coppolino has demonstrated he understands these issues and is actively pursuing them. Please vote for Mike on Tuesday, March 30. — Richard O’Brien, Acton
Adachi has earned spot
I am writing in support of Janet Adachi’s candidacy for selectman.
As chairman of the Conservation Commission, I have worked alongside Janet, who is vice chairman, for five years, and in that time have come to appreciate her many attributes that will transfer seamlessly into service on the Board of Selectmen. One of her fundamental characteristics is that Janet is always prepared. She carefully studies the filings that come before us, and will not infrequently delve into the historical files if a property has ever come before the commission previously. This level of preparation leads to incisive questioning of the applicant, which in turn leads to a better result for the hearing and better protection of the wetlands.
As an attorney, Janet has put her legal training to use by studying the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, a thick and ponderous volume that can prove daunting for the layman. Understanding the dense terminology and the myriad exceptions is no small achievement. But Janet’s copy is well marked up with underscores and post-it notes, and she can turn to any part of the statute in a moment’s notice to illustrate some element of the law. As you can imagine, this is a most valuable contribution to a volunteer board, most of whose members are not lawyers.
In addition to her intellectual and organizational strengths, Janet is also a warm, energetic and amusing woman with a quick wit and an ability to defuse a tense moment. I have come to appreciate her many qualities, and to rely on her completely. But I also recognize that her abilities can be put to broader use for the town of Acton. She has definitely earned my vote for the Board of Selectmen, which will certainly benefit from her presence. — Terrence Maitland, Martin Street, Acton
Kong is open minded
Please join me in supporting Xuan Kong by re-electing him to the Acton School Committee. Xuan has been a resident of Acton town for ten years and for the last three years served on the Acton School Committee. As a past educator of Northern Illinois University he offers special and relevant experience to the School Committee as well as an education policy maker.
Xuan displays intelligence, a strong commitment towards the Acton community, and a conviction that is best served by diversity on the school committee. He believes in the School’s mission to provide quality education but also understands the tax burden on our town in supporting education to strike the right balance. He amplifies his philosophy of putting student’s educational benefits first in everything school committee does. He believes that the true measure of our commitment to education should be how well our students are able to learn and how our children will reshape our country’s future.
My family came to know Xuan through his volunteer work as a treasurer for the Acton Boy Scout Troop 284. I like his open-minded nature, financial shrewdness, and being a good effective listener. These personal qualities married with his unwavering commitment and active involvement in our community is a natural extension of his experience as an educator and as a vice-president of research at a medical device company.
I urge you to remind friends and neighbors of the Acton Town by participating in the Acton School Committee election and vote for Xuan Kong. — Dr. Vera Gill, Northbriar Road, Acton
Coppolino is a leader
We are writing to strongly endorse Mike Coppolino for reelection to the Acton School Committee and urge all our Acton friends, neighbors, and citizens to vote for him.
In these difficult economic times, it’s critical to have strong leadership to balance the many needs of our town as they relate to our school systems. This leadership, coupled with stong proven experience, is key to surving these difficult economic times and sustaining the high quality education provided by our schools. Mike Coppolino possesses both of these and also brings a diplomatic style to help achieve and successfully deliver on the many needs facing our schools. With his 12 years of experience in handling the complexities and change of three superintendents, three major building projects, and two new teacher contracts, he is clearly a very strong leader to help see us through.
During difficult times, often incumbents can get burnt out and leave public office. We appreciate Mike’s dedication to our town, schools, and education. We are fortunate that he wishes to continue to serve and is seeking reelection. We urge our friends, neighbors and citizens of Acton to recognize the importance of the Mike’s leadership, experience, and dedication. Please join us in voting for Mike Coppolino on March 30. — Phil & Anne Marie DeCesar, Musket Drive, Acton
Cavaretta brings energy
Dean Cavaretta will bring fresh energy to the Acton Board of Selectmen. As a 1989 graduate of Acton-Boxborough, Dean is asking voters to choose leadership from a new generation.
On schools with experience as a teacher, he is in favor of moving to a two year state budget to stop the unnecessary practice of guessing how much Chapter 70 aid Acton will receive. And on transportation with knowledge as a former MassHighway official, Dean will advocate for Acton’s priorities over the next three years.
Dean Cavaretta will be dedicated and work hard for us as a member of the Acton Board of Selectmen; please join me in voting for him on Tuesday, March 30. — David F. Olden, Willow Street, Acton
Adachi has right training
In the upcoming election for open seats on the Board of Selectmen, I am proud to endorse Janet Adatchi. Janet’s training and experience as an attorney is excellent background for understanding the broad range of issues that come before the board. Janet’s role in serving as a volunteer and leader for many years on the Conservation Commission and Community Preservation Commission has shown her willingness and ability to understand complex issues and forge consensus around solutions. Janet understands the issues facing Acton and will serve the town well. I urge you to vote for Janet Adachi for Selectman. — Paulina Knibbe
Coppolino, up to speed
I’m writing on behalf of a number of families who’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Mike Coppolino over the past three years while he has been the School Committee Liaison to the Acton-Boxborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council. Mike has tirelessly served our town as a dedicated School Committee member for the past 12 years. I have always been impressed by his personal integrity, knowledge of educational issues, understanding of multiple perspectives, the ease with which he educates those around him, and his genuine openness and accessibility. He is an experienced leader, an interested listener, and a calm, effective consensus builder. His commitment to protecting and enhancing the quality of education for all students in Acton and Acton-Boxborough is evidenced by his 12 years of dedicated public service towards that end.
While all of the candidates running for School Committee share a passion to serve our community, I believe Mike’s experience sets him apart particularly during these challenging economic times. As a past School Committee member Mike has helped guide our community successfully through three major building projects, two operating overrides, two superintendent searches, a fluctuating revenue picture, and the negotiation of two teacher’s contracts. He has chaired the Regional and Acton Public School Committees as well as many important subcommittees, some of which have saved the district a considerable amount of money. As a School Committee member he would bring this wealth of knowledge and experience back to our schools’ top administrative body.
We need more School Committee members like Mike. He has continually reached out to multiple constituencies to better understand their concerns, as well as helped differing parties gain a better understanding of one another’s experiences, priorities and concerns. We need more of this kind of outreach, open dialogue and inclusion. Our community is diverse – from the wealthy to those struggling to make ends meet, from preschoolers to retirees – representing a wide variety of cultural backgrounds. As a community we need to meet and share our differing opinions honestly and respectfully, seek common ground, and design positive, working solutions for our community.
As a parent and a taxpayer, I recognize the importance of providing a quality education to our students in the most cost effective manner possible. As we face the challenges of escalating energy and health care costs and uncertain state funding, I believe Mike’s 16 years of experience as a public school teacher, 12 years serving on the School Committee, belief in quality education for all students, and his commitment to the town’s diverse constituents make him especially well qualified to represent our town’s and children’s needs as a School Committee member. His calm temperament, personal integrity, and belief in open, transparent communications are exactly what we need in our leaders. Key decisions will be made in the coming three years and we need dedicated, experienced representatives who can hit the ground running. Please vote with me on Tuesday, March 30th to Re-elect Mike Coppolino to School Committee! — Nancy Sherburne, Acton
Cotter will enrich board
I’m writing to recommend Brendan Cotter for your vote as Acton School Committee member.
Brendan will enrich the School Committee with his business exposure to many school districts across the country and provide our local Committee with complementary outside perspectives on Acton’s issues. He enjoys and thrives on the process of building consensus to achieve mutual goals making the School Committee function to its greatest effectiveness and efficiency.
As a senior corporate officer he is polished in tough decision making which the School Committee cannot and should not escape. Lastly, he has a sincere desire to serve the community for the benefit of all which I have seen for the last 6 years in his youth sport coaching.
For these, and many other reasons I support Brendan Cotter for School Committee with my vote and I recommend him for yours. — John P. McGovern, Acton
Cavaretta is diligent
As an outstanding member of our community with a long history of commitment to improving our town, I ask my fellow Actonians to give strong consideration to Dean Cavaretta as a selectman in our upcoming town election.
In his work and actions over the course of many years, Dean has shown a strong inner drive to serve and improve our community. Having grown up thru all levels of our schools, and then serving as coach to various teams and as a public school teacher, he understands the importance of having, maintaining, and improving our exceptional school system.
In conversations with Dean, I have found him to be a fine listener, someone who will be tuned to solving the problems that we face in a manner that addresses our concerns as parents, residents and taxpayers. Indeed, Dean is well versed in the issues facing Acton today and ready to get to work serving the people on day one.
I will vote for Dean; I hope you will too. — Dave Lunger, Acton
Lucky to have Kong
I am writing to support Xuan Kong’s re-election for Acton School Committee.
I have known Xuan since the early day of Acton Chinese Language School, and became knowing him more during his first election to the Acton School Committee, when I had the pleasure to work with him in his election campaign, witnessed first hand his passion, his devotion, and his leadership skills. I am most impressed by Xuan’s calm demeanor, his open mindedness and fairness. He always keeps a cool head under pressure or during heated contests, leadership quality that we need especially in this financially difficult time. Xuan is also a good listener, not only to his supporters but also to his critics. He could always tolerant different opinions and work towards compromised solutions.
Once being an educator himself, and with children in elementary school and junior high school, Xuan has deep understanding of the needs of our children as well as our schools. At the same time he brings in his professional expertise to serve our community. Most recently, while serving as the chair of the Acton School Committee, Xuan and other committee members worked tirelessly to minimize impact of the current financial situation to our school system. As a result of their effort, my 7th grade daughter is happy to learn that her favorite Junior High exploratory program is saved.
Town of Acton and its school system are very lucky to have people like Xuan to serve our community, and I believe our schools and kids will be benefit from the continuing services of Xuan Kong. Please vote at the town election on March 30, and vote for Xuan Kong for the Acton School Committee. — Jill Lu, Blueberry Path, Acton
Cotter as track record
I have never been one to write an editorial before in favor or against anyone. However, due to the over whelming fiscal and educational challenges our town faces in the next few years I felt it imperative to write a letter in favor of Brendan Cotter for School Committee.
Brendan has a track record for supporting the children of this town for quite sometime. He has been a Pop Warner Coach and board member for years, where I have been able to see his kindness, commitment and mentoring of children first hand. He has also been involved with many school projects for the Douglas elementary community. He has always chosen to follow the path and philosophy of what is best for the kids, and they come first in all of his endeavors.
Secondly, he has a superior business background with numerous responsibilities that give him excellent skills and knowledge to handle and discuss objectively the fiscal matters that will come before the school committee within the next few years.
Lastly, a School Committee position requires the character of an individual to be exceptionally strong. I cannot express my feelings enough about what a stand up guy, and true advocate Brendan would be for the children of this town. I am confident that in all matters he would put the kids first and their interests foremost during any debate. Is that not what everyone wants from a member of our School Committee? I greatly urge you to cast your vote for Brendan Cotter on March 30. — Jim Kelly, Prescott Road, Acton
Kong is committed
I would like to voice my support for Xuan Kong for School Committee.
Xuan is best prepared to find ways to cut costs without diminishing our academic fortitude. With the looming threat of budget deficits in our school system we need Xuan’s ability to not only balance the books, but his ability to balance educational needs with competing municipal needs.
During his three years serving on the Acton School Committee, Xuan has listened to our concerns. He has worked to keep class sizes down, supported special education programs by finding ways to tap state funding, and advocated support for principals, teachers and administrators.
Xuan is our representative. He knows how passionately we care about our children’s education. He initiated the School Committee liaison relationship with each elementary school PTO, and provided monthly updates to APS school newsletters so that we are informed citizens. He knows how hard we work for our money. He has promoted greater transparency of school financial reporting so that we know where and how our money is spent. He has used his management accounting skills to eliminate wasteful spending and maximize state reimbursements.
Xuan is one of the most deeply committed people I have known. As a past PTO Chair, Scout leader and Friend of the West Acton Boardwalk committee member, I am very sensitive to the demands of our volunteer committees. Xuan actively listens to the problems at hand and musters his quiet intensity to action. He researches the issues. He presents the options and listens to feedback. He has our best interests at heart. He loves our town and schools.
Lastly, I would like to thank the Kong family for their generous gift: allowing Acton Schools to benefit from the talents of their husband/father. — Jeri Lee, Tuttle Drive, Acton
Cotter has level head
I’m writing to express my support for Brendan Cotter for Acton School Committee. I have worked with Brendan on a local town board and have always been impressed with his level headedness and ability to build consensus. Brendan listens to what’s being discussed and always has a solid perspective on the issues and solution to the problems. I believe Brendan’s business background will guide our school committee as it takes on tough decisions concerning budgets and class size over the next few years. Having someone with clear, creative and fresh ideas can only help as the committee works through these tough economic times.
Brendan has three children currently in the public school system which should let you know he will always have our children’s best interest at heart. Being the father of three children who are also in the public schools, I thoroughly throw my support behind Brendan Cotter.
Please join me on Tuesday, March 30, and vote for Brendan Cotter. — Jeff Sullivan, Windsor Avenue, Acton
Harting-Barrat, past and future
I respectfully urge my friends and neighbors to vote for Pam Harting-Barrat for Selectman on Tuesday, March 30.
Over the past 30 years, Pam has worked at the local, state, and federal levels for a broad spectrum of organizations on a wide variety of important issues. She was an early member of ACES (Acton Citizens for Environmental Safety). She served on the Acton Planning Board from 1980-1988, and was the chair twice. She was elected to the Acton and Acton-Boxborough School Committees from 1988-2000, and was the chair twice. She was elected to the Acton Board of Selectmen from 200-2003. And she has served on the Acton Board of Health from 2003 to the present, and is vice chair.
Pam’s commitment to these organizations and issues has earned her a reputation for being a relentless, experienced, and informed voice.
But this election isn’t about the past 30 years. It’s about the next three years. And I believe that Pam’s in-depth understand of and commitment to our town will help us persevere though the lean years as well as it did in more prosperous times.
A Ph.D.-level clinician, Pam works for the Environmental Protection Agency in the Office of Public Affairs on the EPA Critical Incident Stress Management Team. She believes that reasonable, good intentioned people can come together and choose the best path forward for the greater good of their community no matter how diverse their opinions.
As selectman, Pam will use her experience to build a sense of community by reaching out to all citizens to forge a healthy dialogue that strives to balance the needs of all of our citizens from the youngest to the eldest. She will ensure fiscal stewardship, accountability and openness in all matters of Town governance through collaboration between town boards and citizens. She will advocate at the state level for increases in local aid to protect municipal services and our school system. She will reach out to Acton’s growing and diverse community while addressing the needs of our underserved neighbors. She will support programs to expand property tax relief for seniors and those on fixed incomes. She will address our housing needs through stringent oversight of 40B projects and working with our housing authorities. She will preserve our towns rural and village character while guiding responsible development to revitalize village centers and historic buildings. She will protect our open space and our environment through responsible land acquisition.
That’s why I’m voting for Pam Harting-Barrat for Selectman and why I respectfully urge you to vote for her, too. I think a proven leader is our smartest choice in uncertain times. — Greg Jarboe, Cherokee Road, Acton
Cotter brings balance
I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Brendan Cotter for the past five years in a number of contexts, including serving together on the AB Pop Warner Board of Directors for the past several years. Over time, I have observed Brendan’s sense of balance, and ability to get things done in the presence of numerous, diverse opinions and challenges. Even in the heat of debate, Brendan remains composed, thoughtful and open, yet always helpful in leading us to a swift, reasonable and balanced conclusion. I believe that these qualities will serve him well as a member of our School Committee given that every member cares deeply about the schools and our children, and will bring numerous strong opinions to the table.
Having observed Brendan in both a business and social context, I can attest to his strong character and concern for people, in general. Brendan cares deeply about the welfare of our children, and will work tirelessly to ensure we maintain the highest standards of education and safety in our schools. He is also an experienced and very successful businessman, who looks at each challenge he faces through both the lens of his caring nature, as well as logically and practically. It is this combination of qualities in Brendan that have led me to strongly support his candidacy for our School Committee. He will work hard to maintain the high standards we all appreciate within our schools, through the use of fiscally responsible and creative solutions. I hope you will join me in supporting Brendan Cotter when you vote on March 30. — Holly Caldwell, Main Street, Acton
Hedison, well qualified
I am writing to express my strong support for Amy Hedison, candidate for School Committee. I first met Amy 10 years ago when we worked together at a molecular diagnostics company, and upon realizing that our families were both in Acton, I have had the distinct privilege of knowing Amy both professionally and personally. It is from this unique perspective that I feel qualified to make the following remarks about her candidacy.
She is a motivated and skilled leader and has demonstrated her strong interpersonal and organizational capabilities in a variety of settings. I have seen Amy apply her energy and focus to bring people together to identify and achieve common goals for the organizations she has served. Amy is outgoing, articulate, tenacious, and most of all passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of others. She is a highly involved parent with her family (three girls throughout the Acton school system), and no doubt, you have probably seen or met her at soccer fields, dance classes, musical productions, and numerous PTSO meetings and community events. She has served effectively in many capacities within the schools along with teachers and administration on a day-to-day basis.
Having lived in Acton since the mid-90s like Amy’s family, my family has experienced the incredible strength of our school system. We share tremendous pride in this pillar of our community. The current challenges we face, however, will require a renewed effort to preserve and continuously improve our valuable school system.
If elected, Amy wants to focus on the right things: 1) reducing class size for our children, 2) improving relations and communications, and 3) developing forward thinking educational policy and strategy. More info at amyforacton2010.com
I know Amy is well qualified and ready for this opportunity to make significant contributions that will benefit our school system, students, and our community as a whole. I am highly confident in her abilities to continuously improve one of our most valuable assets – our community school system! Please join me in voting for Amy on Tuesday, March 30. — Bill Mitchell, Lincoln Drive, Acton
Harting-Barrat, good person
Our selectmen face the difficult job of trying to meet our needs and wishes for service within the severe constraints posed by the current economic pinch at the Town and State level. Doing this successfully requires a Board whose members are thoughtful and experienced in Town government and able to work collegially.
I have seen Pam seen perform effectively in many roles in Town, including Selectman. I know that her experience, knowledge and ability to work well with the other members will serve the Board well in the daunting task it faces. I believe she is just the kind of person we need. Please join me in voting for Pam Harting-Barrat for selectman on March 30. – Frank Joyner, Birch Ridge Road, Acton
Coppolino, a new term deserved
Please join us in supporting Michael Coppolino for a 5th term on the school committee. Michael has a proven track record of maximizing our education tax dollars. He is deeply invested in achieving excellence in Acton and Acton Boxborough schools in a fiscally responsible fashion. With his years of leadership in education as a parent, teacher, and school committee member, Michael’s insight and understanding of both our schools and our town will ensure that our elementary and secondary schools remain among the best. —Allan Fraser, Claire Picard, 14 Macleod Lane, Acton
Cotter is right choice
As the election date for School Committee nears, the voters of Acton must select a candidate who will not only lead this school system to across the board achievements, but also choose someone who will listen to parental concerns. Brendan Cotter is that candidate.
I write this letter to the editor, so voters can equate a name on the ballot with character and decision making. We all see hundreds of signs in the town, whether on our way to the dump, or driving into a neighborhood. We see the names, but many of us do not truly know the candidates.
Brendan Cotter is someone who cares tremendously for Acton Schools. With three of his kids currently in the system, Brendan appreciates the hard working teachers and the commitment each school has for learning. But he also sees room for improvements at the schools in: 1) Test Results 2) Class Size 3) Students Dealing With Non-Classroom Issues 4) Open Dialogue With Taxpayers.
As an educator, and with a daughter entering kindergarten in the fall, I feel Brendan has the work ethic to make this school system better. When residents go to the polls on March 30, they need to vote for a person who is going to lead Acton with performance and character. Brendan Cotter is the right choice for School Committee. — Jonathan Bartlett, Doris Road, Acton
Hedison has respect
We are voting for Amy Hedison for School Committee on Tuesday, March 30. We’ve known Amy for several years and know her to be intelligent, articulate and more than capable to fill this position.
Amy has three children in our school system, one each in elementary school, junior high, and high school, giving her a unique perspective on the needs at all the levels of schools in our town. Not only is Amy capable of understanding the complexities of a school budget – with her particular background and expertise, she will bring so much more.
As a member of the PTSO and other committees, Amy has always had an excellent relationship with school staff. Her involvement with them, and her dedication to students, will make her a valuable member of the school committee. We want the members of our School Committee to show respect for the hardworking teachers and administrators in our school system, and given her track record, we know she has this ability.
Please visit her website at amyforacton2010.com to learn more about Amy and her platform, and please join us in voting for her. — Linda and Saumil Merchant, Milldam Road, Acton
Vote for Kong, Coppolino
I am writing to urge all Acton voters to unite once again in supporting the candidacy of Michael Coppolino and Xuan Kong who are running for re-election to the Acton School Committee.
Together they have served our community and our children passionately, productively and effectively on the School Committee for a total of 15 years (12 for Coppolino and three for Kong), and the level of knowledge, insight and experience they have gained is precisely what we need in the term ahead.
These qualities are particularly crucial in the next three years as they strive to work with a new Superintendent, some new Administrators, and many new Principals to help them maintain the superior level of education which has kept Acton’s schools among the best in the state.
Coppolino has served as Chairperson of the Regional and Acton Public School Committees three times and Kong once as Chairperson of the Acton Public School Committee, so they know how to lead and manage the complexities of an educational system.
Both have experience as educators inside the classroom — Coppolino has been a public school teacher for 16 years, and Kong has been a university professor.
And both bring business experience from outside the classroom, with Coppolino skilled as a corporate information technology entrepreneur and Kong as a corporate executive.
Both are particularly concerned with, and qualified to meet the challenge of keeping the budget in line with the escalating contractual and insurance costs we face today.
And both have begun to speak out decisively in meetings with thoughtful financial questions designed to provoke meaningful discussion to achieve fiscal examination of the numbers to help reach much needed budget cuts and savings wherever possible.
Both are quiet men in their demeanor, but determined more than ever to make their thoughts and their views clearly heard to achieve greater transparency of school financial reporting and accountability to the public — absolutely essential in these difficult economic times.
Let them continue to be strong voices on the School Committee, and allow their commitment for superior education to serve us and our children for the next three years.
Please join me in returning Michael Coppolino and Xuan Kong to the School Committee with your vote on March 30. — Dick Calandrella, Notre Dame Road, Acton
Xuan has dedication
I urge you to cast one of your two votes in the race for School Committee for Xuan Kong. As a former PTO chair and parent of three kids in the Acton-Boxborough Schools, I have witnessed first-hand the dedication and drive of Xuan as well as his passion for the quality education of our students and children.
Xuan is nearing the end of his first term and there couldn’t be a more suitable time to return him to the committee. Shrinking local-aid and the need to do more with less requires an intellect and common sense approach to problem solving-two character traits that Xuan possesses, among other unique capabilities.
Xuan has kept the lines of communication open between the committee and parents — when delivering the bad news about budgets or the good news about fundraising efforts. He is a hands-on type of representative who represents the parents and school-kids to the best of his ability. I encourage everyone to vote for Xuan Kong on March 30. — Christine Fenniman, Kinsley Road, Acton
Cotter is right person
My husband, Brian, and I look forward to voting for Brendan Cotter on Tuesday, March 30. Brian and I have full confidence that Brendan is the right person for the job.
The school committee will benefit greatly with him as a member. Brendan is very motivated, dedicated and contains the education and experience it takes to be on such an important committee. He has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and has the ability to think outside the box which will bring a valuable perspective to the committee.
I have known Brendan for over 13 years. I have had the privilege of observing Brendan and his wife’s outlook on raising their children and their outlook on their education, which is something that I admire about Brendan and Suzanne.
I attended the Acton public schools and now live in Acton with my husband and two children. We have been in Acton for approximately ten years. Our oldest son will be starting kindergarten in September so we are entering the world of the school system from a parent perspective. As my husband and I enter this new phase of our lives, we hope that Brendan will be part of the school committee as we know he will continue to uphold the reputation that Acton schools have – providing an outstanding education and experience for the towns’ children.
Please vote for Brendan Cotter on Tuesday, March 30. — Cydney & Brian Cotter, Prospect Street, Acton
Hedison is change
As a parent of children in all three sections of Acton Schools I am enthusiastically and wholeheartedly putting my support behind Amy Hedison for School Committee. Amy is a parent who has worked tirelessly for 10 years volunteering at the schools and continues to do so today. Our elementary school has the most successful auction I have ever been proud to be a part of and Amy has contributed in a large way to that effort. I have known Amy for over 10 years and I know she is dedicated to the schools and will work hard to do what is in the best interest of everyone.
We now share the distinction of having a child in each level of school, Elementary, Junior High and High School. There is not a better time than now to elect someone who is in the thick of things and knows first hand the issues that are facing all the schools. She is not someone who is on the outside looking in she is on the inside looking to the future. She is advocating for smaller class sizes which our children desperately need. There is more pressure than ever for our children in school and they need to have access to the teachers and the resources which will help them through these stressful times. It’s time for a change! As a fellow parent please join me on March 30 and elect Amy Hedison for School Committee. — Carolyn Dee, Central Street, Acton
Cotter ready for challenges
On March 30, we will be voting for Brendan Cotter for School Committee, and we write to recommend that you do so as well. Having known Brendan for years, as a friend, as a coach for our son, and as a business person, Brendan has all the qualities we need for a School Committee facing difficult decisions. Brendan has strong family values, is invested in our community and our schools, has an incredible work ethic, and a track record of success in business. Brendan’s ability to lead by listening and working with others to find common ground differentiates him from others.
These are trying times for Acton’s public schools dealing with lower state support, higher class sizes, and a voter base tired of high taxes. We strongly believe that Brendan is the right choice for the School Committee as it addresses these and other difficult issues. Brendan’s refreshing perspective, innovative thinking, leadership skills and business sense will make him a strong contributor. Please join us in voting for Brendan Cotter on March 30. — Mark and Jacqui Burak, Old Cart Path, Acton
Kong as savvy for job
I am writing to share my thoughts about Xuan Kong who is a candidate for the School Committee in Acton. I have worked with Xuan on the Auction Committee for Gates Elementary and also on various PTO events and school board issues over the past several years. I continue to be impressed with his ability to listen attentively to a discussion and then summarize and articulate the key points to be addressed. He is kind, articulate, insightful and a strong supporter of excellence in education. Xuan also sees that there are many facets to each issue, and seeks to work through each item with persistence and keen listening.
I believe that we would all continue to benefit from Xuan’s experience with all facets of the educational system in Acton. I have seen Xuan offer advice and solve problems on the school committee, and work on several committees for the Gates Auction. He is the parent that is always at the meetings and also always there for the set-up and clean at any school event. I hope that he can continue to bring these personal qualities, as well as his teaching experiences and business savvy to work for the mutual benefit of the schools and the community. I will be honored to cast a vote for Xuan on Tuesday. — Sharon Berka, Shady Lane, Acton
Adachi will preserve Acton
I urge everyone to vote in the local election on March 30, and I hope you will vote with me for Janet Adachi for the Board of Selectmen. Janet brings a well-reasoned, intelligent approach to solving problems, and will bring fresh ideas to the Board. As an attorney, she is a critical thinker who does not shy away from difficult issues. I have watched her deal with tough issues as a member of both the Community Preservation Committee and the Conservation Commission, and I admire her willingness to stand up for what she believes in and present her views in a rational, clear manner. Her experience on both of these committees has prepared her well to take on the challenges as a member of the Board of Selectmen.
Perhaps the most important qualities that Janet will bring to the Board are her leadership and her listening skills. As the policy setting authority in town, it is the responsibility of the Board of Selectmen to listen to the will of the people and to lead the town by making difficult, and at times, demanding decisions. Through this process it is also critically important that all voices are heard, and decisions are made that consider all points of view. Janet’s ability to listen and lead will be an asset to her role as Selectman, and will help steer the town through these very difficult times.
Janet is a strong supporter of our school system and will work to maintain that excellence even in these difficult economic times. She understands that our schools not only provide an excellent education for our children, but are also a key foundation for our strong property values. Janet has demonstrated that she will work to preserve the integrity and character of our town, so please join me and vote for Janet Adachi for Selectman .— Peter Ashton, Acton
Four points on Kong
Xuan Kong is the finest candidate, and my candidate of choice for School Committee. Over the past three years, Xuan has played a significant role in shaping Acton’s school systems. Below are just a few of his accomplishments:
1. Xuan has advocated for students educational rights, putting the needs of students first in every decision we as a community make. He has advocated on such topics as classroom size, special education programs and staff support.
2. Xuan has brought fiscal responsibility to the budgeting process by introducing a comprehensive set of budgeting tools. He has made certain that contract negotiations and budget planning are done with the maximum information available, thus ensuring that the most informed decisions are made. He has brought a greater level of transparency to school financial reporting.
3. Xuan has enhanced the relations and communications between the School Committee and the community via creation of a School Committee-PTO liason role, and monthly updates to school newsletters. This improved communications has led to better relations and more open communication between the School Committee and the community.
4. Xuan has played an active role in the recent Conant School principal resignation and search. He has been an avid listener of all perspectives, and provided his wisdom and experience in advocating for what is best for Conant students.
Xuan has dedicated his time and energy to making our school system the best that it can be. He is passionate about what he does. His commitment to improving our schools is unmatched. His expert skill of balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders is beyond compare. And very importantly, his morals and ethics are unwavering.
Most of all, in everything that Xuan does, he never loses sight of the fact that the ultimate stakeholders in our schools are the students. The students of today will one day shape the world we live in, as they become the future leaders of the world. By providing these young minds with the best school system we can offer, Xuan is making the world a better place.
With elections coming up quickly, I ask you to please get out and vote for Xuan. I my humble opinion, he is the finest candidate to bring out the best our schools have to offer. I plan to cast my vote for Xuan on March 30; please do your part for our future, and vote for Xuan Kong. — Joanne Wu, Esterbrook Road, Acton
Hedison has the skills
Acton voters go to the polls on March 30 to elect two members of the School Committee and two members of the Board of Selectman. The town and schools continue to face difficult fiscal decisions. In addition, the local and regional schools continue to adjust to a change in top leadership – both in the central office and in school buildings – not experienced in at least a generation. It is as important as ever to have a School Committee that can effectively work with all the constituencies: faculty and staff, parents and students, and the citizens of Acton.
I am supporting Amy Hedison because she has the intelligence and skills to be a great member of the School Committee. I have known Amy since her eldest daughter (now a HS freshman) started kindergarten, and have worked with her often. She is an independent thinker, but also listens closely to other people’s ideas and is able to integrate them into workable solutions. She has volunteered in the schools at the local and regional level, as well in town athletics and theater.
She understands the challenges facing our schools, and wants to work make the Acton elementary and AB regional schools the best places possible for all children.
Vote for Amy Hedison for School Committee next Tuesday, March 30. — Astrid Trostorff, Mohegan Road, Acton
Kong has vision
I write to support the candidacy of Xuan Kong, who is running for reelection to the Acton School Committee. His combination of educational and business skills and his deep commitment to preserving and improving the quality of the education being provided to our children in a very difficult fiscal environment merit the gratitude and continued support of all Acton residents.
I got to know Xuan two years ago while participating with other concerned parents in the effort to gain approval to start instruction in Chinese in Acton-Boxborough Regional Schools. When our daughter Julia, now a junior, started seventh grade at R.J. Grey, my wife and I were dismayed to learn that the foreign language options available were limited to French and Spanish. Furthermore, when she was about to start high school, we were even more disappointed to learn that the “world language” options had been expanded, but only to include Latin and Italian. In an era in which the United States and China are likely to dominate the world economy for decades, and in which peer school systems like Concord-Carlisle, Lexington, and Newton already taught Chinese and sometimes other foreign languages, such as German or Russian, it seemed to me that youths in Acton and Boxborough were being shortchanged by being limited to only Romance languages. When our group spoke with Xuan, he was sympathetic.
However, this was not a parochial issue for him. His own family and other Chinese-speaking families in our community were already benefiting from the Acton Chinese Language School, where he has served on the governing board. But the Sunday classes provided by ACLS were not a good model for youths from non-Chinese families who wanted to start learning Chinese from scratch. Xuan advised our group on how to make our case for launching Chinese instruction to school administrators and to the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee, and we were pleased by the sympathetic hearing we received. Acton and Boxborough youths of all backgrounds can now benefit from the opportunity to learn another important world language, and Julia is now completing her second year of Chinese instruction at ABRHS.
Since getting to know him I have continued to be impressed by Xuan’s constructive role in helping to guide and improve the educational climate and practices in our schools. Whether it is in using his managerial and accounting background to achieve better oversight and control over school budgets or in expanding the network of regular communication channels to PTOs in each elementary school, it is clear that Xuan Kong cares deeply about improving the educational climate in our community and has served our students and schools very well. Maintaining the quality and integrity of our schools in the very difficult fiscal climate that we now find ourselves in cannot be an easy task, but I am confident that Xuan Kong has provided and will continue to provide the kind of vision and leadership that we need in the years ahead. —Martin Whyte, Acton
Harting-Barrat, dedicated
Why am I voting for Pam Harting-Barrett? Because I know her to be moral, intelligent and hard-working. Her real life experiences, (motherhood, aging parents), work experiences (she went to Katrina), and her service to Acton on the Planning Board, School Committee and Board of Health, all speak for themselves. Truly the world would be a better place if we all had the dedication of Pam Harting-Barrett. —Mary Donald M. D., Taylor Road, Acton
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acton, conant, coppolino, rainer, tireless efforts, wayne macdonald
Bhubaneswar: With higher education department all set to issue transfer orders to academicians in the state, the department is now flooded with representations citing reasons to scrap transfer order.