Letter to the Editor: Time to ensure a quality education for Westport students

I am running for Westport School Committee. I was born and raised in Westport, attended and graduated from Westport Public Schools. I also raised my son in Westport; he graduated from Westport High School in 2011.

I am currently the director of operations for a $30 million fine wine and alcohol wholesaler. I am confident that with my experience of managing 30-plus employees that I can be a huge benefit to the committee. I have spent years bringing teams together to reach common goals. It has always been my strongest asset to listen to all participants before developing a strategy.

I strongly believe in giving back to the community and have thought about running for the School Committee in the past. However, I decided against it after watching, for too long, the combative and contentious nature of the meetings. I want to be part of something productive where there is a free exchange of ideas and everyone works as a team. I believe that the present climate on the committee, with the district's new superintendent, is just that. This is a team of people that I would like to be part of, that I believe the town should be proud of, for the benefit of our children and our community.

Education is extremely important to me, and I want to ensure that our children get a quality education in a safe and clean environment. Secondly, and just as important, I want to make sure that the new school building is completed on time and within budget. The efficient completion of this building project is extremely important for the students and taxpayers in our community.

I am confident that I have the skills, temperament and management experience that will complement the School Committee with fresh ideas and perspectives.

Thank you, in advance, for your support and vote on April 9.

Michelle Orlando

Westport