As a parent who sent two children through the Natick schools and a former educator I truly understand the value of a good education and what it can mean for children's future. We will not shut down kindergartens or close elementary schools for lack of funds! Providing a superior education for our children must remain a top priority for all elected public officials.

Natick needs a new high school and I would find a way to make the new proposed Community Center part of it, allowing us to share the library, swimming pool, classrooms, gyms and as well as computers. Using available grant monies I would put up alternative energy sources at our schools. I propose selling the Eliot School in South Natick to Montessori School and pinpointing that money as a down payment on a new high school. The After School Program and Advanced Placement classes need to be expanded.

If we regionalize some of our services, consolidate some town departments and outsource where possible we will have the money to keep the best teachers that will provide for our child's education. Our schools are our largest assets and they should be open from 7am to 9:00pm. As a selectman I instituted a plan where Natick children were provided scholarships to Walnut Hill School as a payment in lieu of taxes. We have the money in this town.