To the Editor:
I’m writing this letter as a citizen of Verona, not on behalf of any organization. The views expressed are entirely my own.
As the co-president of C.H.I.L.D. (Children Having Individual Learning Differences), advocating for students who receive special education services from the Verona School District is central to my role. Over the past several years, it became apparent to me that not only did we need advocates within our school system, but also within our town itself.
Creating a more inclusive community is not an easy task to undertake. Often, the needs of our disabled community members fall by the wayside, as accessibility to programs, meetings, and other spaces requires time, research, and creativity. One of the people who has worked hard to make Verona a more inclusive community is Christine McGrath.
Christine’s direct advocacy has resulted in plans for inclusive playgrounds by the Community Center and Verona Community Pool, as well as the hiring of a part-time Recreation Department staff member dedicated to facilitating inclusive programming for children and adults.
Additionally, Christine has focused on inclusivity through her leadership in crafting a mission statement for the town and her commitment to the Multicultural Inclusion and Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Beyond that, Christine’s advocacy for transparency and accessibility has resulted in the live-streaming of Town Council meetings, which allows for all members of our community to partake in government.
I’m honored to support Christine McGrath in her bid for Verona Town Council and I have no doubt that, if re-elected, she will continue to work hard to make Verona a welcoming and inclusive place for all.
Sincerely,
Kristen Donohue
Verona
