With a blink of an eye the summer is just about done. School buses will be back on the road and New London and other schools will be in session.

This year New London schools will open with a very strong superintendent. Recently I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Manuel Rivera, as he made time to meet and share with me about his career and his goals for the New London Public Schools. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. I'm confident the 2015-2016 school year will be one for the record books.

Dr. Rivera is the fresh face needed to take our schools through the magnet transition. The school board will be out from under state supervision. The time is now to excel!

Over the summer I learned that Donna Slate retired and will no longer be principal at Nathan Hale. Donna has been in the New London system for 35 years. She brought Nathan Hale to levels of success that are to be commended. NLPS was lucky to have her. Her knowledge, experience and ability to lead will be missed.

Jason Catala

New London

Editor’s note: Mr. Catala is a candidate running for the Board of Education.