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Amy Ritterbusch Second Candidate Statement – School Committee Election 2013

By contributor,
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My name is Amy Ritterbusch and I am running for the open seat on our School Committee. I have lived in Hopkinton for nine years and like most residents I am committed to keeping our schools strong. My husband, Tim, and I have three children (Grades 7, 5 and 2) in the Hopkinton Schools. I have a BA from UMass Amherst. In addition to my many volunteer roles in town, I have a freelance web design business. I have been attending School Committee meetings and actively participating in our town budget process for several years and I feel that now is the right time for me to step up and take on a larger role. I am a hard worker and dedicated volunteer. I am informed on the issues and ready to move forward on key topics facing our schools.

Over the years I have volunteered in a variety of capacities in Hopkinton including: HPTA, Hopkins School Council, HPS Strategic Planning Committee, Educate Hopkinton, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and MOMS Club. I have held many vital leadership roles, such as HPTA Communications Chair and HPTA Extracurricular Registration Coordinator.

My goals on the School Committee will be improved communication and increased transparency, protecting the classroom experience and delivering quality education at a good value to the community. Important tasks for the School Committee in the coming year include ensuring a smooth transition to the new superintendent, and keeping the Center School project moving along in a timely manner by supporting the ESBC and making sure the town is communicating with the MSBA along the way. Longer term goals include following the implementation of the new state-mandated teacher evaluation system, keeping a close eye on enrollment as Legacy Farms and the Lumber Street development come online, bringing foreign language back to the younger grades and updating the Strategic Plan with community input.

As I have been watching the School Committee over the years, when I learn about an important issue, I have worked hard to bring that issue to the attention of other parents and the media. I have been actively involved with several petitions advocating for small class sizes. I was instrumental in spreading the word about the proposed school calendar changes for 2013-14. As a School Committee member I will advocate for the Strategic Plan update, the budget and all policies up for review to be well communicated to the public before being finalized. Drawing on my professional experience and volunteer work, I have many ideas for how the School Committee can better and more consistently communicate with the public.

I know the School Committee is an actively involved committee that puts in many long hours for our town. I am up to the task and will be dedicated to the role. I will work hard to find the right balance between maintaining the level of services the town expects, yet seeking out efficiencies and cost savings that do not negatively impact the classroom experience. I will bring to the table my extensive communications background, attention to detail and dedication as a community volunteer. I respectfully ask for your vote on Monday, May 20.

For more information, please see my website: http://amyforsc.amyritterbusch.com/.