As an educator, I have great respect for anyone who chooses to serve on a School Committee in Massachusetts, a seemingly thankless task in this era of reduced economic support from the state. When Jeff Thielman announced his candidacy for state representative, I was pleased to have the opportunity to support him.

Jeff is firmly committed to our children. As Chair of the Arlington School Committee when I was the principal of Brackett, Jeff impressed me with his leadership. He never wavered in putting the best interests of children first, fighting to provide resources for the schools. We faced many difficult decisions and situations, with no easy answers. He helped us prioritize and maintain a first rate school system, while staying within strict budget guidelines. Jeff always found time to express encouragement and appreciation for the work our school was doing.

I believe that Jeff Thielman will represent Arlington with the same commitment, energy, and conviction that he has demonstrated on the School Committee.