LETTER: Thank You Watertown from a School Committee Candidate

Hello Watertown,

I have had an amazing experience getting to know many people throughout our community over the past few months, and gathering terrific insight into the strengths and challenges our schools face from a multitude of perspectives. As I wrap up campaigning for School Committee, I wanted to thank everyone who has been involved in the conversations and political process thus far, especially my fellow candidates.

I have been lucky to garner support and endorsements from a wide variety of groups including the Watertown Fire Department, and individual endorsements from notable Watertown residents such as Richard Marcus, John Labadini, Elodia Thomas, Kate Coyne, and Alyson Morales and Elaina Griffith.

As a teacher I believe that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community, and I am committed to working incredibly hard on behalf of all of our students. Our schools are at an incredibly important turning point and having people in leadership who are personally invested in the outcomes of our schools is vital. As the mom of a second grader at the Lowell, and a three year old who will be entering the Pre-K next year, I am set to be a WPS parent for at least the next 15 years- so any decisions I make will be on behalf of all children, including my own.

My focus if elected is to do the following:

• Support Central Administration and add resources and information as we look to rebuild and renovate our schools.
• Help provide a budget that increases teacher professional development and collaboration time
• Research and organize a longer range plan to provide universal Pre-K and additional recess time. 
• Be an active and transparent voice to the community from school leadership and available to answer questions and concerns.

I am so proud of our schools and our amazing staff, and I hope to be a part of making our schools reach their highest potential and hope you will consider casting your vote for me, Lily Rayman-Read, for School Committee on Tuesday, November 7th.

Sincerely,
Lily Rayman-Read

(Letters about the Town Election will be accepted until noon on Sunday, Nov. 5. Send them to watertownmanews@gmail.com)