As we approach the end of another fiscal year, we are again faced with challenges that seem almost insurmountable. However, I am confident that with leadership, coalition building, respect, and prudent judgment, we can overcome the looming budgetary concerns and crisis of confidence that are facing our school department.

My vision is for a School Committee that is more open and transparent to parents, voters and taxpayers - a committee that understands that service is a privilege, not a mandate.

My vision is for a School Committee that respects the wonderful work done each day by our public school teachers.

My vision is for a School Committee that embraces different perspectives and understands that such is the true nature of a committee.

In these waning years of our five year plan, we face the distinct possibility of having to face the voters again and ask them to shoulder the burden of another override in the wake of legal battles that increasingly appear unnecessary and exorbitant. We can do better.

I have spent 15 years in town meeting, voting on budgets, and appreciating the ramifications of the decisions we collectively make. My professional life is spent in the service of a $500 million company, mitigating risk and advising fiduciaries. I have had a tremendous amount of professional success solving problems, counseling others and negotiating resolutions. I hope to bring my skills to the committee in a manner that seeks broad compromise rather than victory by confrontation.

I will also try to bring my penchant for process improvement as I have done with initiatives that have brought my company millions of dollars in savings over the last several years.

Joe and his family Finally, as a parent and a 26-year resident of Arlington, I know we are a town of good and compassionate people. We are open to new ideas and even ideas with which we may disagree, as long as we are dealt with in an honest and forthright manner that leaves our concerns feeling respected. I will seek to discharge my duties in a manner that demonstrates respect for the teachers, staff and other personnel of our school district.

I am grateful for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Joe