Dear Editor:

Edgecomb School Board candidate, Maureen Heffernen,recently returned to Edgecomb following a nationally recognized career in the developmentand management of large-scale public projects. She has spearheaded botanical parks and educational programs across the country. From 2004-2011, Maureen served as Executive Director of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. As coastal residents, we have harvested the rewards of her accomplishments.During her tenure, she helped develop and execute a 125-acre plan for the main campus that included an education center, specialty gardens, andinnovative community programming. She has received honors for her work with environmental education, grant writing, and community partnerships. Currently Maureen serves on the Community Advisory Board of Maine’s NPR and PBS network affiliates.We gauge candidatesthat are running for leadership positions in equal measure by their promise and performance. Maureen Heffernan’s performance as a community leader is evident from her resumé. 

The Edgecomb School Board has been sailing along under the same leadership for a decade. So, why rock the boat?  Consistency is a pillar in the field ofeducation. We all know children appreciate sameness – peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Good Night Moon, anda favorite blanket. But . . . sameness stifles potential and complacency cannot prepare our children for the world ahead. Because of her experience with nonprofit organizations, Maureen recognizes that public institutions are organic; they must respond to pressing social, financial, and political circumstances and they must address the concerns of anentire community. 

We should vote for Maureen Heffernan because of her proven success in community service, leadership, and budget management;  because of her respect for others; and because of the promise she brings to a stale educational environment. We should vote for Maureen Heffernan because she is the best candidate for the Edgecomb School Board. 

Cynthia Marsh 

Edgecomb