To Whom It May Concern:
My name is Anna Rappoport. I’ve been a resident of Maplewood for 21 years, graduated Columbia High School (Class ’12) and currently a senior at New York University.
While at Columbia, I had the privilege of being a library volunteer and meeting, and befriending, Mrs. Elissa Malespina. During tough moments, I always knew that I had a home in the library and a friend to talk to in Mrs. Malespina. She essentially acted as my mentor, helping me strive for more and inspiring me to present my best.
From first meeting her, her passion for making the South Orange-Maplewood School District the best district that it could be was evident. From helping students to assisting teachers and other colleagues, it has always been Mrs. Malespina’s top priority to educate everyone around her. Another one of her passions is using technology in education. She has always added new ideas on technology, interfacing, and research at Columbia, South Orange Middle School, and the other school districts that she has worked in.
Given the recent issues the school district has had, I believe that we need someone who actually knows the inner-workings of the schools, who actually cares about the community, and makes the students a top priority; as opposed to consultants, outsiders and worrying about test scores. As an alumna, I’ve heard about the struggles and scandals of SOMSD in recent years, and I believe that something needs to be fixed. However, I know that Mrs. Malespina, and her running mates, are perfect fits for the community and will make an impact in our district.
Sincerely,
Anna Rappoport
Maplewood
