Voters Guide: Dotty Oden for Nashua Board of Education

Your name:  Dotty Oden
Age:  66
How long have you resided in Nashua?  30 years
Your background /education:  BS and MS in education, 24 years as a classroom teacher
Experience/Occupation:  Retired teacher
Prior elected offices:  Board of Education (1992-1995)
Personal info and interests outside of politics:  Married with 2 children who attended Nashua Public Schools and 2 grandchildren.  
Should you be elected, how will you connect with your constituents to learn more about issues they care most about?
I will work to increase ways the Board of Education receives feedback from all stakeholders.Possibilities could involve surveys, suggestion boxes, forums that encourage public participation and I will be available by phone and email for all constituents.

What are the top priorities, in your perspective, for Nashua's Schools right now?

Kids and the classroom are my top priority.  They all need a safe and secure environment and a teacher who works to ensure all are challenged to work and perform to their full potential.  Communication is another priority.  It is a two way street and the Board of Education needs to look for ways to encourage more feedback from all stakeholders.  I believe it is important for Nashua to hire highly qualified individuals to work in our district and as the cost of education continues to rise, I want to work to ensure our money is spent wisely. 

Why should voters select you to represent them on the School Board? 
I believe I am uniquely qualified as a former board of education member and having taught in the school district.  I have been a strong advocate for students and have addressed the Board of Education several times on their behalf.  I am willing to listen and learn from others, but will always vote my mind.  I believe in public education and would like to work to ensure that Nashua students receive the best education possible.  I have no higher political aspirations so am not looking to use this position as a steppingstone to any other office.