To the Editor:

John O'Leary is up for re-election to the RSD 17 Board of Education. His credentials are impressive. He has a B.S. in Mathematics and an M.A. in Counseling from Fairfield University. He is a Project Graduation volunteer, a former volunteer for Haddam Killingworth Youth and Family Services and a former Prevention Council Member and MADD Teen Leadership volunteer. His dedication to his responsibilities on the Board of Education and his educational philosophy are also impressive. Now serving on the RSD 17 Curriculum Council and the BOE Policy Subcommittee, John still makes time to coach Killingworth Youth League Little League.

By training and inclination, John has a broad understanding of the role education plays in the formation of character and the development of the skills necessary to prepare today's youth for tomorrow's world. He expresses enthusiasm and respect for the dedicated and talented people he sees working in the district and for his fellow board members. He readily praises Superintendent Gary Mala for his tireless efforts to revise curriculum and upgrade technology.

One of John O'Leary's core beliefs is that support services in the district must be organized on a comprehensive model that is proactive in addressing the social and emotional needs of students. This approach, partnered with rigorous academic standards and a safe and respectful learning environment, is what John wants to continue working for as a member of the Board of Education.

Killingworth residents since 1999, John and his wife, Patricia, have two children in our school system. Their daughter is a seventh grader at HKMS, and their son, a fourth grader at KES. As parents, they have an added interest in the quality of education in our district.

As a thirty year veteran of a large city school system, I find myself very impressed with John's commitment and philosophy. I urge Killingworth voters to join me and vote to keep John O'Leary on our RSD17 Board of Education. A vote for him is a vote to help insure the best education we can provide our children and grandchildren.

Kathleen Amoia