I
want to thank the voters of Ward 5 for re-electing me to the School
Committee last week by a decisive margin. It has been an honor to
represent Ward 5 on the School Committee, and I look forward to another
two years of working hard to improve our already-strong public schools.

During the campaign, I had the pleasure of meeting and talking
with hundreds of Ward 5 residents. I learned a lot from these
conversations, and I deeply appreciate the willingness of so many
people to interrupt their evening activities and welcome someone
appearing at their door without notice.

I also want to thank
Anna Lavanga for being a candidate for the Ward 5 School Committee seat
and for running a campaign based on issues. I particularly appreciate
Ms. Lavanga's focus on parent involvement. I agree that parent
involvement is essential to our children's education, and I have
repeatedly and successfully pushed for more parent involvement
opportunities in our schools.

But, Ms. Lavanga is correct that
the Somerville Public Schools does not do enough to reach out to
parents and to welcome parents into our schools. I hope to work with
Ms. Lavanga on this issue and will continue to advocate for more
outreach to parents by the Somerville school district.

Sincerely,