Letter: Dietz is right choice

I support Steve Dietz for School Committee.

As background, I have no personal ties to either candidate outside of this election. I write to provide the perspective of a parent and education professional with 20 years in district administration, non-profit leadership, and board governance. I served on Governor Healey’s education transition team when she gained office, managed the investment-rich $1B+ Boston Public Schools budget in the black over multiple economically tumultuous years; led the district’s negotiating team through two cycles of positive-tenor bargaining with the Boston Teachers Union; and have partnered with districts and school committees across the state to launch an evidence-based college success initiative. Locally, I serve on the WPS strategic planning committee and have been a class parent for five years.

I have seen school committees that operate at every level of impact. My support for Steve Dietz is driven by what I have seen in the most high-functioning school committees. Although I appreciate Adam’s background in education, my experience has shown that professional background is of secondary importance. In 20 years of education leadership, it is clear that evidence-based decision-making, authentic engagement, and trust-building are the mission-critical factors for success.

I have engaged with both candidates—Adam as current chair through my own community advocacy, and Steve directly as he builds his campaign. I do not agree with either candidate on everything; that is to be expected. What is more important is how they disagree, how they listen, and their orientation to outcomes. Steve stands out in his commitment to asking the right questions, authentic listening, steady style, and trust-building.  For these reasons, I believe Steve Dietz is the right choice to lead our incredible schools forward.

I thank both candidates for their willingness to serve.

Erika Giampietro, Concord Road