Statement for the Brookline SEPAC Candidate Forum

Thank you to SEPAC for organizing this important event. My apologies to the cochairs, to the concerned parents, and to the students that I am unable to participate today. Special Education has always been an important topic for my family from my great aunt who was an educator to my little brother who learned with an IEP. He was diagnosed early on with ADHD and spent most of his time as a student working with paraprofessionals to stay “mainstream.” His experience, and my mom’s experience as his advocate, taught me plenty about the challenges many families face to get an equitable education for their children. For me, the most important takeaways have always been that inclusion and compassion are crucial to the success of any and every student. As a school committee member I will strive to make sure every student’s voice is included and brought to the discussion.