Auburn School Committee Ward 3 Representative Patricia Gautier.
AUBURN — Auburn School Committee member Patricia Gautier is seeking reelection to the Ward 3 seat. The retired librarian hopes to serve a third term.
Community engagement: Auburn School Committee, ELHS Building Committee, Auburn Public Library board of trustees, Lewiston SHAREcenter board of trustees.
How would you manage the school budget? Allocate more funds to schools or pull back spending? Why?
My approach to managing the Auburn School Department’s budget has always been to listen carefully to the superintendent’s proposed budget and the supporting input from the administrators to fund what is needed for school programs, which ensures all students get the best education possible. Making decisions that involve cutting funds because of less funding from the city is usually difficult, painful and done as a last resort. I want the best for our students and staff.
Do you believe student safety is a priority and would you support initiatives that address safety issues?
Absolutely, the safety of our students is always our first priority. Safety training for staff and students is done on a regular basis. Close ties to the Auburn Police Department have always been important in keeping our schools safe. When building the new Edward Little High School, safety considerations were important and led to many safety measures being implemented in the school’s construction.
Do you believe students’ social emotional needs are being met in schools? What could be done differently?
Good and stable social emotional health is critical for students’ academic success. That is why the Auburn School Department strives to provide adequate services to meet students’ social and emotional needs in all grades. And this field is always evolving as student needs change. We need to continue with these programs and supports, and constantly be creative in the solutions students will need in the future.
Do you believe parents and community members have adequate access to the committee members at meetings or through other methods to express concerns and frustrations?
Parents and citizens are welcome to speak at School Committee meetings during the public participation part. Meetings are held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m. in Auburn Hall. Contact information for School Committee members, the superintendent and other school staff is posted on the Auburn School Department website, www.auburnschl.edu, along with our agendas and minutes. Parental input is welcome and taken seriously in School Committee deliberations.
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