Amy Ritterbusch for School Committee - Candidate Statement

Introduction

My name is Amy Ritterbusch and I am running for the one open seat on our School Committee this year. I have lived in Hopkinton for nine years and like most residents I am a supporter of high quality public education in our town. My husband, Tim, and I have three children (Grades 7, 5 and 2) in the Hopkinton Public 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. My strong communications background, technical skills and detail-oriented nature will be an asset to the School Committee.

Civic and Volunteer Experience

Over the years I have volunteered in a variety of capacities in Hopkinton:

• Hopkinton Parent Teacher Association (HPTA): Communications Chair, Extracurricular Registration Coordinator, Assistant Treasurer, The Runner Blog Editor, Webmaster and Source Book Coordinator
• Hopkins School Council: Parent Representative
• Hopkinton Public Schools Strategic Planning Committee
• Educate Hopkinton Civic League: President, Steering Committee Member and Webmaster
• Cub Scout Pack 26: Den Leader, Webmaster
• Girl Scout Troop 65040: Troop Leader
• Boy Scout Troop 1: Troop Committee Member
• MOMS Club: Newsletter Editor, Activities Chair

Goals

My goals on the School Committee will be improved communication, protecting the classroom experience and delivering quality education at a good value to the community. As I have been watching the School Committee over the years, when I learn about an issue that I think is important, 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 year 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 experience as HPTA Communications Chair, I have many ideas for how the School Committee can better and more consistently communicate with the public.

Conclusion

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/.