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The Qualities and Dedication

Nov. 5 will be the end of an era in Guilford education. In November 1999, Bill Bloss was elected to the Board of Education (BOE), and in November 2019, he will step down as chair. In his five terms, he has worked closely with three superintendents to steadily advance education in Guilford. He oversaw the funding and construction of a new high school, full-day kindergarten, and the International Baccalaureate program. Education in Guilford today is stronger than ever, a draw to new families that keeps our community vibrant. I hope the community will join me in thanking him for his unblemished service.

While Bill will be greatly missed, I am confident that the next team will continue moving Guilford forward. In particular, Katie Balestracci will be seeking her third term on the BOE. In my eight years on the board, I was lucky enough to overlap with both Bill and Katie. Katie brings a Ph.D. in epidemiology and public health and an unwavering commitment to education. She is always prepared, professional, yet personable and approachable. She has been the secretary of the board for the last two years and has chaired the Policy Committee for the last six years.

There is one meeting a month of the BOE that is televised, but many more hours go into the workshop and committee meetings, contract and budget negotiations, expulsion hearings, and the reading and preparation that is required to serve well. Katie has demonstrated that she has the qualities and dedication to serve, and we are lucky that she is willing to commit to another term. I encourage your readers to join me in re-electing her to the BOE on Nov. 5.

Chris Moore

Guilford