I offer this letter with enthusiastic support for Lauren Reichelt as a candidate for the Española School Board in district 4.
Her broad experience over more than 20 years of community service as the head of the Rio Arriba County Health and Human Services Department will serve our school system well. Lauren will bring candor, intelligence and fresh thinking to our district as it continues to strengthen its vision and develop new strategies for optimal outcomes for our students.
At this writing, Lauren is advocating for a Communities in Schools pilot initiative at the Española Middle School beginning this fall. She believes K-12 public schools must surround students with a community of supportive services that will empower them to stay in school and achieve in life.
The iniative builds a wellness team of trained tutors and volunteers, health care partners and local community groups to fortify the work of the instructional and administrative team so that students will succeed inside and outside of the classroom.
Too many of our students and families struggle with the effects of cyclical trauma, poverty and violence. These students can and will exceed our expectations with the vision and contributions of Lauren Reichelt when she becomes a member of the Española School Board.
Roger Montoya
Velarde