Thursday, March 8, 2007 Older Editions

LETTERS

Science teachers: More questions than answers in new speakers policy

Editor, Townsman:

Recently, the School Committee adopted a policy titled "Teaching About Controversial Issues/Controversial Speakers." While we realize that it is in the realm of the School Committee to prepare district policies, we have some questions and concerns. There are two issues here: the first is concerning "invited speakers," and "controversial issues" is the second.

Invited Speakers - The teacher's professional judgment should be the basis of any decision to bring in a speaker. The principal should be able to voice concerns, ask for curriculum connections and/or make suggestions about further information needed, but the ultimate decision of inviting a speaker should be with the teacher.

The word "controversial" should not be included in the speaker's policy. There are some speakers who are not controversial and who may be invited to classes, such as having medical doctors and engineers come to discuss their careers. Why would these speakers need principal approval?

Controversial issues in the classroom - Definitions of what topics are "controversial", to whom are they "controversial," who determines what is "controversial," and other issues are of concern. In an academic environment, there are many topics that may be discussed. What if a parent of a student voices concerns? Does this meet the criteria for being controversial? For example, suppose in a biology class during a discussion about cells, a student asks, "What are stem cells and are they only found in aborted fetuses?" Has this one question changed the class focus to being controversial? What should the teacher do? Ignore the question? Give a vague response? Give an appropriate answer that may elicit additional questions and discussion? How does the current version of the policy help the teacher respond? This is even more of an issue in high school courses such as Bioethics.

In the new policy, controversial classroom topics must relate "directly" to the objectives and content of course curriculum. Who determines the direct relationship? What is the mechanism to measure this direct relationship? What role does the teacher's professional judgment have in the interpretation of the curriculum? What recourse does the teacher have in appealing parental/School Committee complaints?

In the new policy, "teachers must refrain from using their positions to express partisan points of view." Who decides what "advocacy" is and how does expressing one's views differ from advocacy? In the classroom, issues such as global warming or evolution or patient's rights may engender discussion. Students are exploring their feelings about such issues and frequently inquire about what the teacher thinks. Are we to sidestep this opportunity to assist an exploration? We recognize the responsibility of the teacher to identify his/her position and to communicate this to the students and also to recognize that there are other possible positions.

In the new policy, "teachers must ensure that the reasoned arguments of all sides of an issue are given equal presentation and emphasis in classroom discussions." Is it possible to give all sides to any issue? Who determines what issues need be represented by all sides? Would there be enough time during a class to do this? If all sides are not to be addressed, then who chooses those to be included and those to be dropped? Who decides what a "reasoned argument" is? For example, recent court cases have repeatedly decided against the latest interpretation of creation science, intelligent design, and biblical literalism. However, every so often, such topics make their way into school curriculums around the country. Andover has been fortunate and able see through such blatant advocacy of partisan points of view and supports the teaching of our curriculum through a reasoned process where we review, test and modify the topics yearly to keep the curriculum relevant.

We ask that in light of the concerns expressed above, a mechanism be implemented where the teachers, staff and administrators have an opportunity to offer comments and suggestions to the School Committee before the policy discussed above is adopted.

Stephen Sousa, Exeter, N.H.

Deborah Burch, Methuen

The writers are science teachers at Andover High School.

Elected should honor commitment to full term

Editor, Townsman:

Approximately two years ago I thought hard about entering the race for the School Committee. Many folks around town were encouraging and I was flattered to receive such warmth and support.

The ideas and ideals I had were shared by a gentleman who subsequently entered the race. Rather than "split the vote" between two like-minded individuals, I felt it was more appropriate, and more supportive of our young people in the school system, our teachers and administrators, and the townspeople at large, to only have one of us running. It made for a clearer choice. Therefore, after speaking with him, I felt confident that he would be the right fellow to remain in the race and I withdrew.

It was hard, and I felt that I let many people down in pulling out, but felt strongly that with the two of us running, neither would be successful, and the candidate with different priorities would have won.

To me, when you run for elected office with a commitment, you should keep it. Especially for the School Committee, that commitment is vital as the learning curve can be steep. Our young people and educators deserve that commitment - as do we all. If I cannot revel in the joy that was the experience of having Jim Doherty as town moderator, then I will happily support Eric Nadworny, as he too has demonstrated a strong commitment, having been elected to the School Committee, and remaining through many difficult years, completing all of his terms in full, and discharging his responsibilities effectively.

Our young people and our educators need our committed efforts, and we as voters should rise to affirm that ideal.

David Hastings

2 Kenilworth St.

Collins dedicates his life to schools

Editor, Townsman:

I am writing this letter in strong support of Richard Collins and his candidacy for the School Committee. I have worked with Collins in many capacities for over 35 years. During that time he has always put the Andover students' education and welfare as a top priority.

As the senior member of the School Committee, he speaks for both the students of Andover and their parents. Collins has dedicated his entire adult life, 48 years, to the improvement of the Andover Public Schools. He has the respect, insight, experience and knowledge to continue doing the great job that he has done during his tenure as a School Committee member. His outstanding record speaks for itself.

Art Iworsley

8 Rindge Road

Former principal backs Silberstein

Editor, Townsman:

Debra Silberstein has been an involved parent, and a member of the School Committee and Finance Committee. Her support of students began with her three children but has expanded to include all of Andover's diversified student population. She understands that an informed and active interest is the only way to insure a quality education for all.

This commitment led to many hours serving on interview teams for teaching and administrative positions. Silberstein understands the importance of providing the most qualified person as well as the best match for students and staff. In each situation, it was obvious that she did a thorough job in the paper screening process. In the discussions leading to the selection of finalists, she would keep an open mind and actively listen to the opinions of others. Her participation always enriched the procedure.

As the principal of Bancroft Elementary School, I was often challenged by Silberstein in her role of School Council member. She believed that we could do a better job in providing equal access to education for our students. Her passion bolstered my own resolve to negotiate more assertively in the budget process.

Silberstein is a tireless advocate for education who also understands the financial constraints of our town budget. She has proven during her tenure on the School Committee that she is intelligent, creative and committed to the continuous improvement of our educational system.

I am happy to endorse her candidacy for continued service as a member of the school board.

Norah McCarthy

112 Greenwood Road

Silberstein: Insight, fortitude

Editor, Townsman:

There are many reasons why we will vote for School Committee candidate Debra Silberstein. First among them is her record of commitment to Andover, most recently as a member and chairwoman of the School Committee, and formerly as a member of the Finance Committee and the Council on Aging. To all of these roles, she has brought unique insight and judgment, honed by years of experience as a local attorney and longtime resident.

More important to us is the sort of person Silberstein is: a wonderful mother and generous friend, absolutely tireless in her willingness to pitch in. She has spent years volunteering her time in the schools, serving on school councils, as PTO president, and as moderator of Townwide PTO. Silberstein knows how to listen, how to work with different people, and how to bring those people together. She is realistic, practical and effective at building partnerships that work.

Most important, though, is her fortitude in facing the challenges of public service. Elected officials regularly must decide between what is expedient and what is right. Silberstein has shown time and again that, even in the most difficult moments, she has the courage to do what is right. For this reason above all others, we are proud to support her for School Committee.

Annie & Bob Gilbert

12 Gray Road

Selectmen incumbent Vispoli is business leader

Editor, Townsman:

It is rare when you find in one candidate the qualities of fiscal responsibility, vision, comprehensive to problem solving, creative use of resources for improved communication, and appreciation for aesthetics. We have all that and more with Alex Vispoli.

As a selectman, Vispoli has proven his commitment to fiscal responsibility by protecting taxpayers' dollars and by creating annual reviews of each town department that residents can attend. His vision also shows up in his commitment to communication. It is because he pushed for it that there is increased use of the town's Web site for the posting of meetings and agendas. He also worked with the town manager to develop a Comprehensive Communications Master Plan to provide more usable information on the Web site. This is an excellent use of resources that has immediate impact on all of us.

Vispoli is a critical force behind the proposed Design Review Board. As architectural designers, we truly appreciate this effort. The intent is to create a broader-based board that will attend to the aesthetics of the business and mixed-use areas of Andover. This effort will improve the look and feel of the town and will have a great impact on the local businesses. When we have a Sunday afternoon off, the places we like to go are aesthetically pleasing. Andover can be such a "go to" destination if we work together to create a more pleasing downtown. Vispoli has been at the forefront of this effort and should be applauded.

Fiscal responsibility, vision, problem solving, creative use of resources, and aesthetic appreciation - these are all characteristics we need in a selectman and these are what we find in Vispoli.

William and Judith Holt

Wildwood Road

Samuels would look at budget process

Editor, Townsman:

Until David Samuels began running for moderator, I truthfully didn't know much about the job beyond its obvious role at Town Meeting. When I learned the moderator is also singularly responsible for appointing the Finance Committee, I took notice. This position is an important one, especially given the increasingly challenging business of municipal finance.

Samuels is the only candidate in the race whom I personally know. He's been a neighbor of mine for the past five years. I've seen up close his hustle and commitment to our town. You've read other letters in this space about the deftness and precision with which he has run a major dental meeting in recent years. The preparation this role has given him for our Town Meeting here in Andover is unmistakable.

I've also listened to Samuels speak about the need to examine the very process of how we produce a budget each year. With Samuels as our new moderator, I'm confident that will happen. In the end, it may turn out that the approach we've been taking these many years is the right one for the 21st century, but we won't know until we take a closer look.

I feel blessed and privileged to live in this town. It's a wonderful place to raise our children. Voters of Andover would do well to choose David Samuels as our next moderator. His experience, energy, and talent make him ready for this position - on day one.

Jay McQuaide

7 Golden Oaks Lane

Experience, talent, demeanor recommend Nadworny

Editor, Townsman:

One candidate has already demonstrated he has the skills and experience to be moderator. Eric Nadworny served with distinction as a School Committee member for six years, three as chairman. His tenure coincided with a turbulent and critical time. Our schools were overcrowded and a solution was needed. Organized opposition to providing funding had left the town fragmented and the quality of education in jeopardy. Nadworny created a committee of both elected and unelected citizens, to determine definitively the schools' space needs, and find a solution in the town's best interest. The public forum approach Nadworny used allowed every citizen to participate. The plan that was developed resulted in the construction of two new schools, High Plain Elementary and Wood Hill Middle. Both opened on time and on budget. Both opened at capacity, validating the decision to build them.

The success of the school building project was dependent on many things, but was also a result of Nadworny's many skills. His talent as a mediator allowed him to bring together different sides. He remained focused on solving the problem without ignoring financial implications. In open forums and smaller meetings, Nadworny demonstrated he could accurately identify a problem, effectively communicate issues to a diverse citizenship, and encourage input while remaining sympathetic to the needs of the town and its people. This project and his accomplishments as a School Committee member showcased attributes we hope to find in all public servants: accessibility, the ability to hear as well as listen, respect for people, and the ability to execute a plan, while maintaining his integrity.

Moderators don't just run Town Meetings. They appoint the Finance Committee upon whose recommendations we rely at Town Meeting. Nadworny has already demonstrated his ability to understand that fiscal realities must be included while finding solutions.

Nadworny's success as a labor attorney is a direct result of his experience and excellence in negotiations. It is incumbent upon him to facilitate an environment where consensus can be achieved, often in an atmosphere of tension and hostility. Here, Nadworny has developed another trait vital to a successful moderator: the ability to remain unflappable.

A combination of talent and experience such as this is not often offered in service.

Lois Rosenbaum

251 Highland Road

Perfect attendance of Doherty speaks loudly

Editor, Townsman:

"Attendance counts," the Townsman's Feb. 22 article, surprised and concerned me.

The position of moderator is enormously important, both for what it is, and what it is not.

It is not an entry-level position into Andover town politics. A broad knowledge of the town's past, present and future issues should be a prerequisite, as well as a demonstrated history of working effectively within the current town government.

It's not a pulpit. It's not a platform from which to promote a point of view about a social issue or budgetary matter. A moderator must be absolutely neutral and able to set aside personal beliefs. Easier said than done, especially for candidates with strong personal views about how the Finance Committee should allocate dollars.

It is a demanding position, requiring patience and serious negotiating ability. Jim Doherty made it look easy, even fun, but this job is often tedious hard work, requiring persistence and commitment. The same kind of commitment it takes to show up at Town meeting, night after night, not just for the evenings when a specific article of interest is being heard.

The candidates' attendance records speak far louder than the candidate's comments about themselves. A candidate who shows up 100 percent of the time before asking for your vote has already demonstrated the commitment this position demands. Sheila Doherty has heard both sides and knows the history of every issue. She did this long before she intended to run for office. It's just the way she works. Add to that her years of Planning Board experience and her business skills and we've clearly got an exceptional candidate.

Linn Anderson

93 Abbot St.

Why town should vote for my brother, Ozoonian

Editor, Townsman:

As a former resident of Andover and the sister of Ken Ozoonian, I encourage people to vote for him as their next town moderator. Let me say why. Besides his intelligence, honesty, and compassion, he really wants to serve his town and community. His attention to detail, extremely good memory, and desire to be inclusive, not exclusive, are all part of the package. He told me that he's thought about running for moderator for the past 15 years and he feels now is the right time. I agree with him wholeheartedly.

You may say I'm prejudiced since Ken is my brother, but even I am constantly amazed at how many people have told me what a remarkable person he is. They all say he would be perfect for this job. All his professional work has provided him with the necessary skills. In addition, his sense of humor and ability to quietly sit and listen are bonuses.

Finally, Ken really cares about Andover (as do I) and all its residents. He's lived here all his life and he's not going anywhere. Andover couldn't find a better candidate for moderator, no matter how hard it looked.

Andover would definitely get its money's worth if it elected him.

Rosemary Ozoonian Arkoian

Gaithersburg, Md.

Vispoli has vision, solves problems

Editor, Townsman:

Andover voters should reelect Alex Vispoli to the Board of Selectmen. Vispoli has worked many hours for citizens. As selectmen chairman and a business leader, he has demonstrated his leadership skills, fairness, and fiscal responsibility conducting complex negotiations and bringing groups together. These are talents we need in our town leaders.

Vispoli has the vision and experience to help Andover continue to be a vital business center, bringing tax dollars and people to our community. As an Andover business owner I have witnessed this first-hand. During the lengthy and complex process of obtaining our business license, Vispoli was an advocate who listened and understood the value of a new and unique concept. His guidance and support demonstrates his ability to lead Andover to continued success while preserving the values that make our town special.

During Vispoli's first term as selectman he successfully initiated mid-year public department fiscal reviews. This allows Andover residents an opportunity to question and provide input to key department managers. Vispoli also initiated open forums to, again, gain resident input for major town projects. He initiated the Interstate 93 Interchange Task Force to protect Andover's interests.

Vispoli has a proven record of accomplishment and positive change. We need his leadership and continued focus on fiscal discipline, accountability and solving issues including construction of an Andover youth/community center.

Amy Aycock

53 Blanchard St.

Robb's experience is key

Editor, Townsman:

I am writing this letter in support of my father, Don Robb, for selectman. I am proud and fortunate to say that I know first hand of all the time, effort and hard work that he has put into Andover. Since his retirement a few years ago, he has become even more involved. He serves on the board of the Andover Historical Society, is a member of the Andover Sister Towns Association and the Andover Cultural Council and was proud to serve as the co-chairman of the Senior Center Task Force.

But it is his experience serving 10 years each on the School Committee and the Finance Committee that will make him such an effective selectman. He knows exactly what goes into employee contract negotiations; and he knows how to help meet the needs of our school, our fire, our police and other town departments equally. On a personal note, my dad gives 110 percent to anything he does, as a husband, father and grandfather, and I know that he will give the same to the town as a selectman.

Kate Currie

36 York St.