Letter: Make your vote count

Besides doing your civic duty, there are some practical reasons to show up and vote in this election, starting with the Select Board race. It may look straightforward at first glance, but it’s worth knowing that even in an uncontested race, vote totals matter. The two candidates for Select Board who receive the most votes earn three-year terms. Your vote still has real impact so if you have a preference, make sure you show up and make it count!

Some people don’t have kids in the schools and are somewhat blasé about the School Committee race. I’d encourage my fellow voters to take an interest in how our tax dollars are spent on the Town’s largest budget item, and to note that the success or failure of the Weston Schools directly affects property values and the stability of our community. It affects you, whether or not you have students in the schools.

I’m supporting Adam Newman, the School Committee’s current chair, for re-election. He has spent 30+ years in education. Starting in the classrooms as a teacher, he now runs one of the country’s premier educational consulting companies. Adam is at the forefront of new technologies, methods and organizational models that yield the best results and find efficiencies in our schools. We get his wealth of knowledge and expertise for free.

The School Committee is currently negotiating with three unions, including teachers.  With multiple union contracts under negotiation, Adam’s steady, constructive approach matters. Good relationships mean productive classrooms. Let’s help Adam keep that going.

Adam has also been part of guiding a budget that balances maintaining a high-quality education with being thoughtful about taxpayer dollars. Under Adam’s leadership, the School Committee’s budget is endorsed by the Finance Committee for passage at Town Meeting. Neighboring towns are facing teacher layoffs and budget cuts. Careful stewardship of our tax dollars and ensuring a top-quality education for our children are main priorities for Adam.

We’re fortunate to have someone with Adam’s experience and commitment willing to serve. I hope you’ll help re-elect him and please get out and vote.

Alex Selvig

Ash Street