Dear Editor,

This year the School Committee is losing a valuable volunteer member in Carla Nazzaro.  Having served as an active member for the last 6 years, Carla brought a level of unparalleled commitment and professionalism to the board and is leaving with a trail of outstanding accomplishments (here are just a few).  First, Carla was instrumental in bringing on our latest Superintendent, Dr. Milaschewski, who’s leadership has begun a positive transformation of the Reading Public Schools (RPS).  Next, in partnership with the other members, found a way to fund full day kindergarten, a long sought after RPS goal.  Most notably, Carla has served on the Killam School Building Committee (KSBC) and has guided the project to a successful town wide debt exclusion vote after having secured funding from the Massachusetts School Building Administration (MSBA).  Many on the KSBC committee are hoping she will continue to serve on that committee to see the project through to its’ fruition.  The town and RPS owes a great deal of thanks to Carla for her efforts.

Carla’s departure will leave a hole on the board that isn’t easily filled.  In selecting a new member, I would encourage you to strongly consider Lori Hayes.  I have had the privilege of getting to know and work with Lori over the last 2 years in various Town related volunteer and political capacities. Lori is a Town Meeting member and has always approached issues in the town with a logical perspective.  Lori is someone that I feel comfortable sharing and discussing issues knowing that she will always provide a balanced and thoughtful response.  Lori has two children in the RPS at the High School.  She has seen first-hand the results, both positive and negative, of how the RPS is run and its impact on education.  Lori has been an active participant in RPS, from volunteering at numerous Birch Meadow, Coolidge Middle School, and RMHS events to being a Parent Member of the “Reading in Reading” literacy committee.  These experiences, much like those of Carla, will serve her well.

I would be remiss if I did not mention one more relevant fact.  While Lori is retired, her professional career was one of a project/program manager in the life sciences/biotechnical industry.  Lori’s attention to detail, organizational skills, and personal approach were clearly developed in that role.  As a fellow project manager (in Medical Devices), I can attest to the fortitude it takes.  As a project manager, you often don’t have direct reports. Your job and success rely on others.  It’s important to build strong relationships, have positive influence and build credibility by providing correct information and incentives.  The role is not just a management role, you must be willing to roll up your sleeves and do the hard work, leading by example.  Lori is a person with that approach, and similar to how Carla worked, will be a valuable addition to the School Committee.

Please join me in voting for Lori Hayes for School Committee.  She’s the right person for the job, and like Carla, will carry on her tradition of commitment and professionalism to continue to move RPS in a positive direction.

John Sasso
Richards Rd