Editor’s note: following is an opinion submitted by Westporter Liz Williams.

In a crowded field of contestants, I want to share why Abby Tolan is my clear choice for Westport Board of Education in this year’s election. While I am proud to be friends with her, and have relied on her steady guidance as a parent navigating this school system, it is her deep well of empathy for students and experience as a Special Education educator that makes me grateful she wants to share her expertise and time. Abby cares deeply about the culture of our schools and aims to support all students. 

Like many districts across the country, Westport went all in on Whole Language reading instruction and spent millions of dollars training and implementing this misguided approach. This programming is damaging to all students but particularly devastating to kids with reading disabilities. Abby has steadfastly advocated for more soundly researched curriculum and interventions over the last 15 years, and deserves credit for her part in helping to achieve record setting Third Grade reading scores across the district.

Character matters and Abby has spent her life helping kids. She has incredible emotional intelligence, an open mind, and a generous heart that always looks to what is best for the greater good, even when under fire from one special interest or another. She is reflective, compassionate, and thoughtful about what all of our students and educators need to succeed.  Her sincere commitment to our students and deep well of experience isn’t flashy or controversial but she has made the district better for all of its students. 

Please vote for Abby Tolan to remain on the Board of Education November 4th.

Liz Williams
Cobble Hill Road
Westport