We are special education families in Northampton writing in support of Mike Stein’s reelection for Ward 4 School Committee.
Our families have had to plead, argue and advocate for our children to receive the support that state and federal law requires the Northampton School District to provide. We know many others in the district that have similarly faced illegal and unethical treatment, but do not have the ability or privilege to speak out.
Despite resistance and stonewalling from the mayor, superintendent and director of student services, Mike Stein consistently stands up for families, amplifying children’s needs and defending their rights. He has done more to support families in the district than almost any other Northampton elected official.
Mike Stein attends School Committee meetings prepared with budget details and district data, as well as the experiences of community members who reach out to him for help. One of us (Gaurav) turned to Mike when his own representative would not help; as always, Mike listened, supported, and advocated for ethical action and legal compliance.
Mike Stein supports recommendations that help marginalized children in our district, knowing that this ultimately helps all students. For families like ours, these things matter, especially when the federal government is eliminating staff and destroying accountability for special education. Mike Stein is the only choice for Ward 4 residents who want more equitable public schools in Northampton. He will continue to support the needs and access of all students, and help rebuild our district after recent years of drastic staffing cuts and rampant violations of state law. Having an advocate like Mike is what we need in this politically frightening time.
Andrea Bertini, Kim Hutt Mayhew, Dr. Gaurav Jashnani, Marianne Milton, Dr. Lisa Modenos, Carlos Oliva, Dr. Diana Schwartz, Dr. Sophia Sarigianides
Florence