Technology group supports Lobel

(Please note: this letter is not an endorsement by the Arlington Public Schools Technology Council, which is no longer meeting regularly)

We have all had the opportunity to work with Josh Lobel on school technology projects, and as members of Arlington Public Schools Technology Council.

We have seen Josh in action in our meetings where always Josh promotes a positive atmosphere. He listens to proposals, helps us generate ideas, evaluates alternative solutions and knows how to pragmatically solve problems. Most importantly, Josh turned our ideas into action.

Josh’s work on the Bishop Web and e-mail systems became the basis for some of our current public school systems. Josh worked effectively with school administrators, teachers and parents to adopt this technology. It was not an easy task, but with Josh’s hard work, collaborative skills and superb technical knowledge, we met our goal and were able to introduce new technology and policies.

We know our schools are changing to help our children meet the needs of 21st century. We need School Committee members who care about our children, who get along with teachers and administrators, and who listen to needs of parents and community.

We also need leaders who can also look at new ways to solve problems and cut costs through more effective use of technology. Josh’s professional work as a manager of technology development and training programs means he works daily collaborating with organizations and their staff learn to effectively use new technologies.

Josh has a proven track record of results and accomplishments in other arenas as well. He is a tireless school volunteer, a Town Meeting member, a soccer coach and a technology professional. He has had children at every level of the school system and he has attended 95 percent of School Committee meetings in the last two years.

He has studied school policy and school budget as part of his participation in Schools are a Priority in our Town (SPOT). He also knows town government and will work to improve town and school partnerships so our schools can deliver quality education within our fiscal constraints.

Josh brings many skills to his role as a School Committee member: a passion for public education, a commitment to public service and collaborative personal qualities.

You have two votes for School Committee. Please join us in casting one of your votes for Josh Lobel.

Henry Olds
Bartlett Avenue

Brooks Harrelson
Ashland Street

Judi Paradis
Forest Street

George Blaszczynski
Washington Street