To The Editor:

As a parent and an educator, I know firsthand what it means to value and support education. Newtown is fortunate to have Chris Lyddy standing up and fighting for education in Hartford.

Having personally known Chris his entire life and being his lifelong neighbor, I am especially proud of all of his accomplishments.

During his first term, Chris Lyddy was appointed to the State Education Committee. He led the way on legislation that ensures children with autism receive the services they need, fought for improved high school graduation standards, and co-sponsored legislation that works to make our students ready for college or a career after graduation.

Chris’s work is not only recognized by us in Newtown, it has earned him recognition across the state. He was named a Children’s Champion by the Early Child Alliance for two consecutive years, and earned ConnCAN’s inaugural Tip of the Cap Award for his hard work on education policy.

Without the tools and resources necessary for success, our children will be unable to compete and succeed after high school. I applaud Chris Lyddy’s steadfast determination in fighting for such an important cause at the state legislature. In him, Newtown students, teachers, school staff, and parents have a true advocate. Chris Lyddy is listening to our needs, working for our children and us.

I respect and trust Chris Lyddy’s integrity and have no doubt that Chris Lyddy will continue his passionate commitment to education as our representative in Hartford. I support his reelection with great enthusiasm. I hope you will join me in voting to reelect Chris Lyddy on November 2 so that he can continue working for all of us here in Newtown.

Sincerely,

Laura Hegarty

1 Smoke Rise Ridge, Newtown                            September 29, 2010