09/19/11 Marianna Ponns Cohen: Reasons For Seeking Re-Election

Our Greenwich public school system currently faces many pressing challenges. While notable successes have been achieved in some important areas, overall district academic performance has declined, even as the town has spent an ever-increasing amount of money on many new initiatives.

As a member of the Board of Education, my priority has been how the district can do a better job to meet the educational needs of all of its children. I have sought answers as to whether we have used and allocated our resources in an effective manner to support all students' potential and academic achievement. I have also questioned whether we are identifying the best solutions for our schools.

To be successful, I believe, especially at this time, that we need bipartisan cooperation and support to shape optimal solutions for the education of all our children. What has been clear is that the status quo and declining district academic performance are not acceptable.

During my tenure, I have consistently championed public accountability and open government, and have sought to have a dialogue with all stakeholders in town, whether the 24 percent who have children in public schools, or the 76 percent who do not. I have also sought to represent the interests of our entire community and to hear the views of everyone, whether they are Republicans, Democrats or independents. I firmly believe that the best results for our children will come out of a healthy and informed debate, as well as a diversity of opinion and backgrounds.

For these reasons, as a person who is deeply committed to excellent public education, and with four years of in- depth experience, I am seeking re-election to the Board of Education and ask that you vote for me in November.

Marianna Ponns Cohen
Greenwich Board Of Education

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