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Need Their Skill and Values

Chester Elementary School has long been recognized as a special place where the pursuit of academic excellence comes together with the commitment to meeting the necessary needs of each student and family. The school has become one of the foundations that maintain the vitality of our community.

I know it well. My children and two of my grandchildren began their education there. Their evolving lives and careers, as well as those of countless others, were launched at Chester Elementary School. It was there that my wife went that extra mile for a generation of Chester children and where others like her now continue to do the same.

In my 12 years as a member of the Chester Board of Education, the past eight as chair, I have seen my fellow members grow into a responsible and well-functioning team that, year after year, partners with the district administration to support and help guide the important work done at that school.

On Tuesday, Nov. 7, voters will have the opportunity to return two valuable and active members to office. Continuity is especially valuable to boards of education, where responses to rapidly changing demands are built upon history and past practices. Dale Bernadoni and Lorraine Connelly both have deep roots in education and service to children. Dale served for many years as a public school administrator. Lorraine’s service was in independent education, where she played a leadership role in working for school advancement.

I urge Chester citizens to join me in voting for these two outstanding candidates as they continue to join us in our mission to keep Chester Elementary School that special place. We need their skill and values as they continue to work to build a system that serves our community deep into the 21st century.

David Fitzgibbons

Chester