SCHOOL BOARD Q&As: Graham Sullivan

Name: Graham Sullivan

Age: 37

Occupation: Self-employed

1. Please introduce yourself and explain why you are running for school board.

I’m Graham Sullivan and I’m running for school board to continue the work that I and the rest of the board has been working on since I came on the School Board 4 years ago.

2. What is a parent’s role and how does it fit into the school district?

I think that a parent’s role is one part of the village that it takes to educate a student. Without all parts working together, we aren’t able to educate a student to the best of their abilities.

3. How do you think the district is recovering from the 2020 school year?

I think given the challenge that 2020 gave to all of us, we are recovering well. I think the social emotional health of our students and staff is always an area for improvement, but I truly feel like we have a board and administration team who cares and is trying to find the best ways to improve this.

4. What’s the best quality of Newton schools? What can the district improve on?

I think the best quality of Newton Schools is our teachers, staff and administrators. Our People. We have the best you will find anywhere. They are compassionate, innovative and spend countless hours improving our district.

We can always improve upon our facilities, technology and keeping students who leave our district for other districts.

5. What other school issues are you most passionate about?

I’m passionate about our students, and providing a quality education to ALL.No matter who they are, I believe that no matter their background a child should feel wanted and provided for educationally. I think all students should have the opportunity to find their passion within our district, no matter their interests and if a student has not yet found their passion, that we have the ability to work with them to find it. I think education is more than just textbooks and homework, though they certainly serve a purpose, we must provide for the whole child when educating them.