I wish to enthusiastically endorse Hugo Alves, Philip Hogan and Julie Toal for their courageous track record of leadership at the New Canaan Public Schools (NCPS) Board of Education (BOE), including through the dark days of COVID. Over the past three years, I have personally witnessed the BOE on multiple occasions take controversial positions to advance the interests of the children of New Canaan and their parents, often in the face of vicious attacks from those who would sacrifice the excellence of our school system on the altar of political expediency.
Aristotle called courage the first virtue because it is the foundation which makes other virtues possible. During a time when the quality of education across Connecticut appears to be under pressure (Aleysha Ortiz, CT high school grad who can’t read, sues Hartford), the courage to champion academic excellence and individual merit in our community should be considered to be table stakes for anyone seeking BOE leadership.
New Canaan’s status as the top ranked public school system statewide has been hard won, and Hugo, Phil and Julie have actively addressed parent concerns to ensure that students are immersed in foundational American values and history (New Canaan schools to review curriculum after parent book complaint).
The education of the next generation is fundamental to the success of any community. The parents and children of New Canaan are fortunate that Hugo, Phil and Julie are prepared to continue to serve and have earned our support.
Sincerely,
Heather Lauver
