Editor’s note: following is an opinion submitted by Westport resident Danielle Teplica.

I am writing to express my most enthusiastic support for Abby Tolan for the Board of Education.  I have known Abby for five years, served on PTA committees with her and benefitted from her influence and participation in community events. She brings so much value to the Board of Education in the categories that are most relevant for the role.

Education and experience as a teacher: She was rigorously educated as a teacher, with additional coursework and experience in special education and literacy.  She has the knowledge to make sound decisions about how students will best learn, gives her valuable understanding of what students are sometimes missing and needing in their education, and gives her the experience to understand what teachers and schools need to be effective.

Perspective and habits of mind: What I’ve found most valuable to me personally in working with Abby is that she opens up the thinking in a group and helps us be mindful of all students, beyond the limits of our personal experience.  Her special education training and advocacy serve her well in this regard, and it is also just centric to who she is.

Process:  Abby steps up, is hard-working and completely straight-forward.  She comes with deep experience in leadership roles and group dynamics and understands the responsibility of a board member to work together and produce good work.

Commitment: Her passion to help where it is needed, solve problems and achieve fairness for everyone is a consistent driving force for her, and she brings positive momentum to the work of a group.

Local elections really matter. I hope you will enjoy your chance to vote and join me in voting for Abby Tolan for Board of Education on November 4.

Danielle Teplica
Maple Avenue South