I am writing to express my support for Mary Townsend for Cape Elizabeth School Board in the November election.

Why Mary? I met Mary at the middle school playground the week that I moved to Cape Elizabeth. I was surrounded by strangers, and she was the first person to reach her hand out to introduce herself and welcome me to the community. I think that this one gesture points to three of Mary’s strengths that will serve her well as a School Board member: she is confident, she is concerned and she is a communicator.

Mary and I have worked closely together on several school campaigns, and I am always astounded by her commitment and her competence. She is a tireless worker with exceptional organizational skills. In addition, she is a strong critical thinker who is able to come up with creative solutions to difficult problems. These skills will prove invaluable given the challenges that Cape Elizabeth schools face with regard to preparing our town’s children for the global world in a weak economic environment.

Finally, and most importantly, Mary is a consensus-builder. Just as she reached her hand out to me at the playground, she will reach her hand out to all members of our community to hear their concerns about our schools, and across the aisle to Town Council members in an effort to achieve a positive budget process. If I sound like a cheerleader for Mary, I am. Please join me in voting for her on Nov. 4.

Susan Spagnola

Cape Elizabeth