To the Editor:

Our school board is on the verge of making major decisions with long-lasting implications, and we need to elect the most qualified candidate who can best contribute to that process.

A quick look at both candidates campaign websites should help in your voting decision. Is the candidate qualified?

Rich Ellis has an extensive business background and he is broadly respected for the time and skill he brings to clarifying the nuts and bolts of school district business. The public and even other school board members regularly turn to him for his expertise in areas such as project management and deciphering spreadsheets.

Does the candidate’s past performance suggest they will be successful in that post?

Rich Ellis has served on the school board for the last three years with distinction. He has gained the respect of his peers, the administration and the public that has taken an active part in school matters. Ask someone who has worked with him before you make up your mind.

Can the same be said of his opponent? Take the time to remind yourself of his opponent’s tenure on the board. One news headline that ran at the time was “Brunswick School Board strips Watson of leadership over e-mail to Pingree, ‘angry’ comments.” Look it up.

What motivates this candidate?

Rich Ellis grew up in Brunswick, feels called to serve his community, and also feels a responsibility to contribute his skills to help solve the challenges facing our schools. This is not a career path or a stepping stone.

When Rich Ellis votes, I am confident that he has done his homework and his opinions are not arbitrary or political, but based on sound reasoning. For that reason, he has my full respect, even when we disagree.

Re-hire Rich Ellis for school board.

Vladimir Douhovnikoff
Brunswick