On Wednesday, Oct. 23 I attended my last meeting of the Tiverton School Committee as an elected member. I am incredibly grateful for the trust placed in me over the last 12 years by the voters of Tiverton. I am also grateful for the incredibly hard work of the teachers, staff and administrators of the district as well as my fellow committee members both past and present. 

Over the next several days we will vote for candidates to fill three of the seats on the Tiverton School Committee. Among the candidates for office are three dedicated citizens who deserve our support: Diane Farnworth, Mike DeCotis and Jocelyn Sherman. I have served with Diane on the school committee for the last eight years. She is a smart, dedicated and discerning professional who has led the committee for the last five months with skill and kindness. I know she will continue to strengthen the schools for all our children. I have known Mike since he first became involved as an advocate for full-day kindergarten. He always asks the right questions and has a finger on the pulse of the community. He brings the perspective of a parent, coach and involved community member to every meeting. Jocelyn has been an active parent, fervent supporter of the schools and has followed the issues facing us closely. She will bring an informed and fresh perspective to the committee.  

Public service is frustrating, joyful, empowering, bland and so, so important — all at once. It has been an honor to serve with my fellow citizens of Tiverton: Jan Bergandy, Jim Arruda, Carol Hermann, Sally Black, Deb Pallasch, Diane Farnworth, Elaine Pavao and Mike DeCotis. You have all taught me things even when you did not know you were doing so — whether by example or expression of an alternative view or your insight into a particular problem. I will always treasure these lessons and the time I have been allowed to work with you.

Jerry Larkin

Tiverton