To the Editor:

We are writing in support of Beth Behrend’s re-election to the Board of Education (BOE). We believe it is crucial and necessary for Beth to continue her dedicated leadership to the BOE, our students, and our schools.

Since being elected to the BOE in 2017, we have witnessed Beth devote limitless time and skills in finding significant cost-savings measures through the introduction of priority-based budgeting, reduced expenses, and tighter controls. She has also been a steadfast promoter of the district’s equity goals through restorative justice, racial literacy, and the implementation of free pre-K. Her leadership during the switch to remote learning has been crucial.

Our schools face immense challenges with funding, overcrowding, equity, and aging facilities, to name a few. As president of the BOE, Beth’s stable guidance has been essential in tackling all of the district issues to achieve long-term success. She successfully lead the Board in finding an interim superintendent and, as we embark on finding a permanent one, we know her past experience will again guide our district to solid ground. We also know that Beth’s experience is needed now, more than ever, as we revamp and create a robust new way of teaching due to COVID.

We were fortunate enough to work with Beth, as officers of the PTO Council Executive Board, before her election to the Board of Education. During that time, we gained insight into Beth’s collaborative leadership and her ability to handle complex situations with thoughtful questions and consideration in her desire to be the voice for all of the children in the district.

We need an experienced, equitable, dependable, and dedicated leader in these times of constant change. That is Beth Behrend.

Sue Bowen
Stone Cliff Road

Christina Walden
Dodds Lane