Time for me to move on

Editor, Townsman:

Residents:

As my second term on the School Committee winds down, I want to thank you for the privilege to be of service to you and to let you know I will not seek another term. I have served 10 years in local government, four years as a member of the Andover Finance Committee (2000-04) and six years (three years as chair) on the Andover School Committee (2004-10). It is time for me to move on. This will provide an opportunity both for reflection and for looking at the landscape with a different lens. As some of you know, in August 2009, I received a doctorate in social policy from the Heller School of Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University. I would like some time to use my new skills to compliment both my policy and political interests.

I have learned that Andover is a community rich in culture, talent, and diversity. Education is a deeply held core value. We are also a community in transition - adjusting to sustained reduction in services, slowed economic growth, demographic changes, and fast moving technological advances. This is a pivotal time for Andover's future. Three areas must command our undivided attention: safety for our citizens; economic growth for our future; and positioning our schools and students for the demands of the global marketplace and the evolving digital world. I am confident that as a community Andover citizens are up to the challenges ahead and that our town and our children will be well served.

I am proud to have contributed during a period of sustained growth, stability, and distinction for Andover Public Schools and students. I thank the incredible school staff that work with our children within a strong culture that cares about them as individuals, students, and guardians of our collective future. I thank you, the voters, for your vision of our very special New England community and ongoing commitment to preserving the best of our past while embracing the future to sustain our growth.

Debra Rahin Silberstein, Esq., Ph.D.

Burton Farm Drive