The following letter to the editor was submitted by Andover resident Dianne Domenech-Burgos, who sits on the APS Superintendent’s Advisory Council. The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Andover News. You can learn more about our policy on opinion and commentary on our Mission and Policies page.
As an educator and school administrator with nearly 30 years in both public and private schools, I am very familiar with school governance and policymaking. As a member of the APS Superintendent’s Advisory Council, I’ve learned about the incredible work going on in the district. From these perspectives, I feel strongly that we need to re-elect Sandis Wright for Andover School Committee.
Good relationships are the foundation of success, and frequent board turnover disrupts productive relationships. Sandis has cultivated many collaborative partnerships in Andover, especially within the schools, by leading with authenticity, honesty, and compassion. Sandis listens empathically and thoughtfully, and he asks questions with an open mind. In times of disagreement, he looks for possible ways to meet in the middle, or, as he often puts it, “find a path to yes.” I have yet to meet someone who didn’t feel heard after talking with Sandis.
Re-electing Sandis will ensure continuity in leadership, which will help maintain momentum on the many great things happening in APS. In his first term, Sandis supported new elementary and middle school math curriculum, which is already showing a positive impact on MCAS scores. He was responsive to concerns of Andover families and worked with Andover Recreation to offer school-based programming for students on early release days. Sandis also helped research other school districts governance models including sub committees, councils and task forces for different purposes such as budgets. That research helped APS to establish advisory groups such as the one I currently sit on, and he has sought new ways to connect with the community to increase engagement and involvement. With continued service to the School Committee, Sandis will build on and expand this work to improve APS for all.
We are lucky that Sandis is so eager to continue serving our schools. Let’s keep APS moving forward. Please join me in voting for Sandis Wright for School Committee on March 25. Polls are open 7am-8pm.
Dianne Domenech-Burgos
Andover
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