Dear Editor:

I am writing in support of Katie Bailey for District 65 School Board.

Katie has proven that she is not only a hard worker, but also that she is one of the few board members who listens to the community. Katie returns calls and e-mails and often will meet with parents and community members to discuss issues. Katie brings leadership, experience, compassion and, most of all, community outreach.

Katie has chaired numerous committees and has sat as a member of several others. Katie is always prepared, always asks the tough questions, and always listens.

She also has a strong financial background. With an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, she has a solid understanding of budget issues, which is crucial as we continue the ongoing struggle to keep our budget balanced and our programs funded.

I believe that Katie has a very strong track record of compassion, community involvement and responsiveness to the many needs faced by the children in our community.

All of Katie’s goals for the upcoming years are things that are important in this district. Katie believes strongly in college/career readiness, coordination between District 65 and District 202, increased expectations for middle schoolers, better use of data, financial stability and proper school maintenance and safety.

Please join me in re-electing Katie Bailey!

Nicole Jacob Marks