My name is Kirstan Watson, I’m 44 years old and I’m running to fill the vacant seat for Arundel on the RSU 21 School Board of Directors. I was born in Arundel and attended Mildred L. Day through fifth grade. In sixth grade I enrolled at Sea Road School, then Middle School of the Kennebunks and graduated from Kennebunk High School in 1998.

As a child, school was my refuge. I had a challenging childhood with a difficult home life. I faced adversity that threatened to undermine my learning and development and, to be candid, at times it did.

Attending Kennebunk schools was life changing. Immersed in a world of encouragement and support, I thrived. I realize this extraordinary educational environment exists because deeply caring, engaged adults work hard ensuring our schools are safe, nurturing environments that honor each student’s unique identity, skills, and needs. They are also places where new skills are introduced and encouraged.

This school system saved my life.

I write this not to inspire sorrow, but to emphasize and celebrate how critical and meaningful public education can be, especially for kids whose resources are limited. I feel called to repay the tremendous debt of gratitude I feel and that’s why I’m running to serve on the RSU 21 School Board of Directors.

I passionately believe every child in this community deserves an education affording each of them the opportunity to reach their full potential. I’d be honored to carry forward our tradition of excellence while also building and improving in an ever-changing world.

Kirstan Watson

Arundel

The decisions we make in the coming months will have an out-sized impact on the future of Kennebunkport. The effects of climate change, growth from ever-increasing popularity and rising costs are threatening the very essence of our community.

I’m running for the board of selectmen because I want to give back to this community that has given so much to me. What I can bring to the board is 40 years of marketing and communications experience that taught me the importance of mutual respect and listening with an open mind. I’ve been a union vice president and I’ve sat on the other side of the table as a manger.

My wife and I have owned a home here since 1998. Moving here full-time in 2020 was the realization of a dream. I have served as a member of the Goose Rocks Beach Advisory Committee, the Kennebunkport Climate Action Planning Committee and the town’s Website Committee.

I’m eager to listen and work cooperatively with others to ensure a sustainable future for everyone who lives, works and plays in Kennebunkport. Please feel free to reach out and let me know what’s important to you at staffordkport@gmail.com.

Fred Stafford

Kennebunkport

 

Nonprofit experience

correlates well

Writing in as a resident of Kennebunk, I would like to mention my support for Karen Plattes in her candidacy for Select Board.

Karen brings years of experience working for nonprofit organizations in various roles. This experience, I feel, correlates well with the responsibilities required of a Select Board member. She has experience in contract management and fiscal responsibilities therein which makes her well poised to tackle the budgetary situations currently facing the town.

In addition to this experience, Karen is an active member in several community organizations including Kennebunk Free Library as well as the Chamber of Commerce, vital organizations to our town’s existence. Additionally, Karen has served the town for three years as an election official giving her first-hand experience with the requirements and duties of public service.

Please join me in supporting Karen’s candidacy for Kennebunk Select Board.

Christian Babcock

Kennebunk