From Challenges to Opportunities: Turning “We Can’t” Into “We Will”

If there’s one thing the past few years have taught us, it’s that our community is resilient. We weathered a global pandemic together, supported our students and teachers through an unprecedented disruption, and came out stronger on the other side. But one of my biggest pet peeves is still hearing excuses about why something can’t be done — or hearing, five years later, that a program or opportunity hasn’t returned because it “stopped during COVID.” Our kids have moved forward, and it’s time for us to do the same. Because while schools may have reopened, the work of truly rebuilding and reimagining what’s possible is far from finished — and that’s where our next chapter begins.

COVID left its mark on every district, including ours. We saw students lose valuable time for social and emotional growth, teachers stretched to their limits, and families juggling more responsibilities than ever. And while academics have been a major focus since returning to “normal,” one area where we’re still catching up is enrichment — the kinds of programs and experiences that light kids up, help them discover their passions, and make school feel exciting beyond the classroom walls.

Right now, Pomfret’s students have far too few opportunities for after-school clubs, creative programs, and hands-on learning beyond the bell. These programs aren’t “extras.” They’re where confidence grows, friendships form, and kids learn teamwork, leadership, and real-world skills. Whether it’s robotics, drama, gardening, music, coding, or debate — enrichment helps students see that learning isn’t just about tests and textbooks. It’s about discovering who they are.

I believe we can bring these opportunities back — and better than before.

If elected to join the Board of Education this Fall, I want to champion partnerships with local organizations, seek creative funding sources, and work closely with staff and parents to launch programs that reflect our students’ interests. I want to make sure that any child who wants to stay after school to explore something new has the chance to do it. And I want us to reimagine enrichment not as a luxury, but as an essential part of a well-rounded education.

I know it’s possible because I’ve seen it done. In my experience working with a much larger district, after-school enrichment wasn’t just a “nice bonus” — it was a thriving part of the student experience. My older kids still talk about the memories they made in gardening club, cooking club, Dungeons & Dragons and gaming groups, LEGO robotics, and so many other opportunities that helped them discover their interests and build lifelong friendships. And here’s the exciting part: with the right leadership, we can bring that same level of opportunity to Pomfret. I’ve already built connections with local partners who are willing to help with transportation — one of the biggest barriers to after-school programming — which means we have a real chance to turn this dream into a reality for our students.

This is how we turn “we can’t” into “we will.”

We will rebuild what was lost.

We will expand opportunities for every child.

We will make Pomfret’s schools places where curiosity thrives and kids can dream big.

Our kids only get one shot at these school years — and they deserve more than excuses about why opportunities haven’t returned. “It stopped during COVID” shouldn’t be the end of the conversation anymore. It’s been five years. It’s time to stop talking about what we can’t do and start showing what we will do. Together, we can rebuild programs, expand opportunities, and give our children the experiences that help them grow into curious, confident, and capable young people. That’s the future I’m committed to creating — and with the right leadership, I know Pomfret can get there.