Dear Editor:

I am running for reelection to the Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Consolidated School District (CSD) Board. The election is May 2. There’s lots on our plate these days, much of it stemming from the recent pandemic; student and staff health; staffing issues; student social and emotional issues; and potential learning losses, to name a few. Add to that the discussion over a possible new building, and the renewed interest in reviewing how our schools are governed under the existing special charter from 1956. Further, curriculum matters such as STEAM, general classroom offerings, and programs like gifted and talented, all require our consideration and approval. Not least is the budget for all of this. My personal goal is to see that we offer the best public education we can for our kids, consistent with our ability, as taxpayers, to afford the programs we propose.

I have a varied working background, with 20 years as a public school teacher and administrator. That period was followed by 20 years in the computer industry, primarily in software development management, and then eight years as an elected member of the Maine State Legislature, representing six of our local towns.

I read a lot of education research and journalism, and try to stay current with all that is important in the K-12 world, especially as it applies to our schools in the CSD. I also visit the schools from time to time to talk with teachers and students, and occasionally volunteer as well.

If you have any questions, You can reach me via email at bmacdonald@aos98schools.org

I hope you will consider voting for me on May 2 for a seat on the CSD Board, representing Boothbay for another three years.

Bruce MacDonald

Boothbay