Rep. Megan Cotter calls for focus on the children in selecting the next Chariho School Committee Chair

The selection of a Chariho School Committee Chair should not be politicized

By Steve Ahlquist

RI state Representative Megan Cotter (Democrat, District 39, Richmond, Exeter, Hopkinton) sent me the following this morning about recent attempts by a new Republican majority on the Chariho School Committee to violate the rules (and possibly the law) to install one of their own as Chair. You can read about that here: There were shenanigans at the latest Chariho Regional School District meeting

Here are Representative Cotter’s full comments:

“I am writing to express my strong support for Karen Reynolds as the chairperson of the Chariho School Committee. Her dedication to education, fair-minded leadership, and unwavering focus on improving the lives of children make her the ideal candidate for this important role. Karen has served on the School Committee since her appointment in 2021 and was re-elected this fall.

“I know Karen not only as a fellow community member but also as an exceptional educator and advocate for all students. Karen has been a teacher at Exeter-West Greenwich Junior High School for over 30 years. My children have been fortunate enough to benefit from her care, commitment, and professional expertise. At track meets, I have seen her clapping for her son’s team of Chariho and EWG students because they are all her kids. This small but meaningful act exemplifies who Karen is—someone who values every child, regardless of where they come from and believes in lifting them up. Her empathy and inclusiveness extend beyond the classroom and into the communities she serves.

“One of Karen’s greatest strengths is her deep understanding of the complexities of education. Having worked on the front lines as a teacher, she recognizes the challenges that schools, teachers, and students face. She approaches these challenges with a genuine desire to create opportunities and improve educational outcomes for all students. Her decisions are guided by what is best for the kids, not by partisan pressures, a political agenda, or personal gain.

“Karen does not seek the spotlight; she seeks results. As Chair, she would guide the Committee and public through the agenda and ensure all voices are heard. Her focus has always been on collaboration, finding common ground, and making thoughtful decisions that prioritize the wellbeing of students and the quality of education in our schools. She is committed to transparent decision-making and her duty to provide accurate information to Chariho’s parents and residents. This approach is exactly what Chariho needs in a chairperson.

“It’s disappointing to see attempts to politicize this process or undermine Karen’s integrity. Karen has always been a unifying force, working tirelessly to bring people together for the betterment of our schools and communities. Her ability to navigate differing opinions and foster productive dialogue is a testament to her leadership skills and dedication to public service.

“Karen Reynolds is a leader who focuses on the needs of our children and is dedicated to building a stronger public education system. Her experience as a teacher, passion for education, and fairness make her an excellent choice to lead the Chariho School Committee.

“I urge my fellow community members to recognize Karen’s incredible qualities and support her in this role. Let’s prioritize the future of our students and stand behind someone who has proven time and time again that she is in it for the right reasons—the kids.”