We are living through historic times, when the decisions made by members of our Board of Education can literally have life or death consequences. Given the importance of their task and how much their decisions affect my family personally, I will be sure to vote on Nov. 2.

There are two scientists running for BOE who will have my votes. One is Carmen Garcia-Irizarry, a scientist employed at Pfizer whose tireless advocacy for science-centered policy is exactly what we need on our Board of Education. In listening during her campaigning to her views on masks at schools, I feel confident in her advocacy for the safety and health of children at school.

The other is Mary Harris, a scientist who worked at Pfizer and then taught science for many years at Fitch and other high schools. I cannot think of a background more well-suited for the BOE than this combination of work experience!

As the pandemic moves into its next phase, voices like Carmen's and Mary's are ones we need making sound decisions that put students and science first. Please join me in voting for Carmen and Mary for the Board of Education on or before Nov. 2nd!

Vanessa Sotelo

Gales Ferry