To the Editor:

My passion for public service has inspired me to run for the Board of Education in Newtown, and I know my unique skill set will benefit the students and members of our community.

Currently, I own and manage a fundraising consulting firm.  Working with large and small non-profits and municipalities throughout the state, we help to increase opportunities for organizational growth through fundraising and board development. My career has allowed me to partner with wonderful organizations right here in our community, allowing them to grow, achieve sustainability, and implement critical programming.

As a fundraiser, I have the experience to assess the needs of our community and make recommendations to meet those needs using grants and other budget alleviating strategies.  Federal, state, and local funding sources must be explored for every program or service offered in our schools.  Innovative ideas should be celebrated and given the opportunity to take root.

I hold a degree in social work.  My social work education and experience allows me to understand the complex mental health needs of the children in Newtown and look at ways to address these needs on a long term basis.  I am committed to ensuring that all children in Newtown feel safe and supported by giving them the resources they need to form healthy relationships, achieve educational success, be healthy emotionally, and grow to become kind and empathetic young people.

For the past two years, I served as President of the Middle Gate School PTA.  As a PTA leader, I have first hand experience working alongside teachers and administrators to create a positive, safe, welcoming learning community.  I am excited to bring that experience to the entire district, extending the partnerships I have built at Middle Gate and Hawley to all seven Newtown schools.

I have been fortunate to have been able to serve the Newtown community through my role on the Board of Directors for EverWonder Children's Museum, as co-founder of the My Sandy Hook Family Fund, and as a member of the Municipal Buildings Strategic Planning Committee.

I was recently inspired by this quote by Simone Bell, a State Representative from Georgia: “Be still and listen to your constituents, meditate on it and always maintain your integrity.”  I truly believe that the role of a public official is to listen to the thoughts and ideas of those we have been elected to serve.  I look forward to hearing from you, learning from you, and working together to continue to make Newtown a place where all children can flourish. 

Please free to reach out to me with your questions, comments, and concerns at harrimanstites@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

Rebekah Harriman-Stites

5 Sealand Drive, Newtown              September 8, 2015