The ACSD school board ballot will be very full this year. I am proud to support Hilda Stone and Ron Makleff.

Our focus needs to be meeting the needs of our students and supporting both our students and our educators. Yet, the conversation seems to keep circling back to school closings. We have to be careful in assuming that closing schools will save money or will allow us to improve the educational outcomes of the students in our district. Whether you think schools should stay open or be closed — we need our board and administration to rely on data and research to guide these decisions.

It is with this in mind that I support Hilda Stone (Bridport) and Ron Makleff (Middlebury) for ACSD school board.

Hilda Stone has children in the district and serves as vice president of the Bridport PTO. With experience managing the finances and operations of the family business and a dedication to educational excellence and equity, Hilda knows it takes creativity and collaboration to find solutions to meet the varied needs of our community. Her strong dedication and willingness to listen and consider the views and lived experiences of others will lead to thoughtful discussion and a strong decision-making process.

Ron Makleff is a father of a pre-schooler, an educator, and human rights activist. He has taught around the world, including Occupied East Jerusalem. Ron is passionate about public education and is committed to improving student outcomes, building on the increased accountability and transparency of the board, and working to make sure every voice in our district is heard and respected. Ron has been endorsed by the VT-based grassroots organization, Rights and Democracy.

We are facing many challenges and we’ve seen great progress at the board level with thoughtful discussion and debate, and I firmly believe these two candidates will add to that dynamic. As we look to face the challenges ahead, Ron and Hilda will be steadfast in doing what is best for our children and educators. 

I hope you’ll join me in casting your votes for Hilda Stone and Ron Makleff!

Tanya Scuteri

Shoreham