Former Keyport board member grateful for support

I would like to thank all the voters who supported me in my attempt at re-election to the Keyport Board of Education, especially my family, who endured countless hours without "mom" in this last year and who still gave a nod to a re-election bid. Thanks, guys!

As a parent, business owner, Keyport Business Alliance board member and Board of Education incumbent, my schedule was quite full. I did not campaign during this busy tax season. However, in some literature circulated, one could infer I do not share the same values and ideals as the other candidates. This implication is simply untrue.

The teachers union (Keyport Education Association) did not endorse me. I'm sure they are upset over the termination of the librarian. I am absolutely fine with this, as it seems inappropriate for any board members to be that "cozy" with the teachers union. In fact, there are regulations that actually restrict the voting on certain issues by board members endorsed by a union. If I had it to do over again, I would do everything exactly the same. My decisions were always based on my own judgments and I never blindly followed any group mentality.

Again, I wish to thank my friends and supporters for all the level-headed talks and confidence in me. I am grateful for this opportunity to have served the children and the community. So it is with a smile and a wave I leave my fellow board mates - good luck in this year.

Sandra Shevlin

Keyport