As a parent of a child who attends the New London Public Schools I am writing this letter to stress the importance to elect Jason Catala to the open seat in the 39th District. Catala is an efficient, honest and dedicated member of the New London Board of Education. He has served for almost 14 years.

I have attended meetings where he speaks out to advocate for all parents. At one meeting I witnessed Jason advocating for a stricter background check policy for employees and volunteers. This is so important to protect our youth. It’s obvious he carries a sincere love for the City of New London.

Of the four candidates running in this special election, Jason Catala is the only candidate who has lived in New London his entire life.

The next state representative must be someone who understands New London. This person must know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck and someone who understands that New London can no longer be taxed to death. Jason Catala is that person. I will be casting my vote for Jason Catala on Feb. 26.

Tamyra Bernoudy

New London