I write to enthusiastically endorse Gwen Agna for the at-large School Committee seat in the election on Nov. 7. As a first-grade teacher at the Jackson Street School, I worked closely with Gwen, the principal of our school, for 18 years.

She is an experienced, caring and dedicated educator who understands children. She is a leader who analyzes information and data with a critical eye. She works in partnership with families and community members. She supports teachers, school staff and colleagues, and promotes best practices and high-quality teaching for the students in the Northampton Public Schools.

She is a thoughtful listener and an effective, respectful communicator. Over the years Gwen skillfully steered our school through challenging budget crises, with calmness, purpose and determination, all while maintaining a critical focus on the educational mission of our school — a tall order! Gwen’s experience as a lon-time administrator in the Northampton Public Schools, as well as her effective tenure on the Northampton School Committee for the past two years, make her an exceptional candidate for the at-large School Committee seat!

Mary Bates

Florence