It is encouraging to see that we have a significant slate of candidates running for office in this year’s town election. Acton succeeds as a town because people are willing to step up and serve on volunteer boards and committees and in the high pressure seats on the towns elected boards.
Many people have asked me who I will be supporting for the two open Selectmen seats and the two School Committee seats. I have submitted a brief endorsement letter to the Beacon but have decided to expand on that in this email to people who have supported me in the past.
First, I would like to thank all of you for your support. Being a Selectman is a very difficult job. The issues that come before us are, by their nature, complicated. The consistent support I received from the people of this town helped me to sort through the issues and attempt to come to decisions that will be in the long term best interest of the town.
In the Selectmen’s race, I am proud to endorse Janet Adatchi. Janet’s training and experience as an attorney is excellent background for understanding the broad range of issues that come before the board. Janet’s role in serving as a volunteer and leader for many years on the Conservation Commission and Community Preservation Commission has shown her willingness and ability to understand complex issues and forge consensus around solutions. Janet understands the issues facing Acton and, if elected, will serve the town well.
I also urge you to vote for Pam Harting Barrat. Pam has a long history of service on a range of town boards and committees including the Planning Board, the School Committee and the Board of Selectmen. If she is elected, this experience will help the new board by providing historical perspective on the decisions that it will face in the upcoming years.
Dean Cavaretta has a lot of enthusiasm and energy and a passion for transportation issues. However, I am concerned that because he just moved back to Acton in November after a 10 year absence, taking a seat on the highest board in town may not be the best use of his talents at this time. I would encourage him to volunteer for a couple of years on the Transportation Advisory Committee while he comes up to speed on the issues currently facing the town.
For the school committee, I support Amy Hedison’s candidacy. She brings a strong commitment to the schools and a history of volunteering inside the schools that will allow her to effectively represent the point of view of parents.
I am also supporting Xuan Kong’s bid for re-election to the School Committee. I have enjoyed working with Xuan through the ALG process as the chairs of our respective boards. I believe that in addition to his work on the School Committee his unofficial role as a liaison to the Chinese Community provides significant long term value to the town that we all share.
Regardless of whether you agree with my choices in these races, I encourage you to vote on March 30th. If you cannot vote that day, you may fill out an absentee ballot at Town Hall, of course.
Please feel free to forward this email if you wish to do so.
Paulina Knibbe
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Xuan displays intelligence, a strong commitment towards the Acton community, and a conviction that is best served by diversity on the school committee
Please join me in supporting Xuan Kong by re-electing him to the Acton School Committee. Xuan has been a resident of Acton town for ten years and for the last three years served on the Acton School Committee. As a past educator of Northern Illinois University he offers special and relevant experience to the School Committee as well as an education policy maker.
Xuan displays intelligence, a strong commitment towards the Acton community, and a conviction that is best served by diversity on the school committee. He believes in the School’s mission to provide quality education but also understands the tax burden on our town in supporting education to strike the right balance. He amplifies his philosophy of putting student’s educational benefits first in everything school committee does. He believes that the true measure of our commitment to education should be how well our students are able to learn and how our children will reshape our country’s future.
My family came to know Xuan through his volunteer work as a treasurer for the Acton Boy Scout Troop 284. I like his open-minded nature, financial shrewdness, and being a good effective listener. These personal qualities married with his unwavering commitment and active involvement in our community is a natural extension of his experience as an educator and as a vice-president of research at a medical device company.
I urge you to remind friends and neighbors of the Acton Town by participating in the Acton School Committee election on March 30 and vote for Xuan Kong.
Dr. Vera Gill
Acton
Xuan displays intelligence, a strong commitment towards the Acton community, and a conviction that is best served by diversity on the school committee. He believes in the School’s mission to provide quality education but also understands the tax burden on our town in supporting education to strike the right balance. He amplifies his philosophy of putting student’s educational benefits first in everything school committee does. He believes that the true measure of our commitment to education should be how well our students are able to learn and how our children will reshape our country’s future.
My family came to know Xuan through his volunteer work as a treasurer for the Acton Boy Scout Troop 284. I like his open-minded nature, financial shrewdness, and being a good effective listener. These personal qualities married with his unwavering commitment and active involvement in our community is a natural extension of his experience as an educator and as a vice-president of research at a medical device company.
I urge you to remind friends and neighbors of the Acton Town by participating in the Acton School Committee election on March 30 and vote for Xuan Kong.
Dr. Vera Gill
Acton
Xuan is a former college professor, who cares deeply about education
I am writing to express my support for the re-election of Dr. Xuan Kong to the School Committee. I have known Xuan for over ten years before he first moved to Acton, as we work for the same medical device company.
Xuan is a former college professor, who cares deeply about education. I have seen first hand his attention to detail, analytical approach, and drive for excellence. As a Conant parent, I believe his diverse educational background is much appreciated. We live in a multicultural town with a diverse student population. Our School Committee members should be reflective of this diversity and their different viewpoints valued.
Xuan is also a hard worker and has contributed greatly to the School Committee these last three years. He is not easily replaced. I urge you to vote for Xuan Kong for re-election to the School Committee.
Rainer Maas,
Acton
Xuan is a former college professor, who cares deeply about education. I have seen first hand his attention to detail, analytical approach, and drive for excellence. As a Conant parent, I believe his diverse educational background is much appreciated. We live in a multicultural town with a diverse student population. Our School Committee members should be reflective of this diversity and their different viewpoints valued.
Xuan is also a hard worker and has contributed greatly to the School Committee these last three years. He is not easily replaced. I urge you to vote for Xuan Kong for re-election to the School Committee.
Rainer Maas,
Acton
Xuan has a very good understanding of how hard the teachers, administration, staff, and parents work in this town to bring such a fabulous education
I am writing this letter to support School Committee member Xuan Kong, who is running for re-election. I have known Xuan Kong for several years through our volunteer work as parents at Gates School. As a past PTO chair and auction chair at Gates School, I always knew that I could turn to Xuan for help and support whenever needed.
Not only is Xuan willing to set up and do the work necessary to help PTO events run successfully, but he also understands the importance of the work that all the PTOs in town are doing. Xuan’s initial involvement at Gates School spurred him on to serve the Acton-Boxborough community at large as a member of the School Committee. During his years on the School Committee he has maintained his participation at Gates in addition to wholeheartedly dedicating himself to improvement throughout the Acton-Boxborough school system.
Xuan has a very good understanding of how hard the teachers, administration, staff, and parents work in this town to bring such a fabulous education to our children. Xuan’s loyalty and dedication to the interests of not just the Acton-Boxborough schools but also to the community at large are the reasons I am voting for Xuan Kong for School Committee on March 30
Lucinda Sears
Acton
Not only is Xuan willing to set up and do the work necessary to help PTO events run successfully, but he also understands the importance of the work that all the PTOs in town are doing. Xuan’s initial involvement at Gates School spurred him on to serve the Acton-Boxborough community at large as a member of the School Committee. During his years on the School Committee he has maintained his participation at Gates in addition to wholeheartedly dedicating himself to improvement throughout the Acton-Boxborough school system.
Xuan has a very good understanding of how hard the teachers, administration, staff, and parents work in this town to bring such a fabulous education to our children. Xuan’s loyalty and dedication to the interests of not just the Acton-Boxborough schools but also to the community at large are the reasons I am voting for Xuan Kong for School Committee on March 30
Lucinda Sears
Acton
Xua is one of the most deeply committed people and actively listens to the problems at hand and musters his quiet intensity to action
I would like to voice my support for Xuan Kong for School Committee.
Xuan is best prepared to find ways to cut costs without diminishing our academic fortitude. With the looming threat of budget deficits in our school system we need Xuan’s ability to not only balance the books, but his ability to balance educational needs with competing municipal needs.
During his three years serving on the Acton School Committee, Xuan has listened to our concerns. He has worked to keep class sizes down, supported special education programs by finding ways to tap state funding, and advocated support for principals, teachers, and administrators.
Xuan is our representative. He knows how passionately we care about our children’s education. He initiated the School Committee liaison relationship with each elementary school PTO, and provided monthly updates to APS school newsletters so that we are informed citizens. He knows how hard we work for our money. He has promoted greater transparency of school financial reporting so that we know where and how our money is spent. He has used his management accounting skills to eliminate wasteful spending and maximize state reimbursements.
Xua is one of the most deeply committed people I have known. As a past PTO Chair, Scout leader and Friend of the West Acton Boardwalk committee member, I am very sensitive to the demands of our volunteer committees. Xuan actively listens to the problems at hand and musters his quiet intensity to action. He researches the issues. He presents the options and listens to feedback. He has our best interests at heart. He loves our town and schools.
Lastly, I would like to thank the Kong family for their generous gift: allowing Acton Schools to benefit from the talents of their husband/father.
Jeri Lee
Acton
Xuan is best prepared to find ways to cut costs without diminishing our academic fortitude. With the looming threat of budget deficits in our school system we need Xuan’s ability to not only balance the books, but his ability to balance educational needs with competing municipal needs.
During his three years serving on the Acton School Committee, Xuan has listened to our concerns. He has worked to keep class sizes down, supported special education programs by finding ways to tap state funding, and advocated support for principals, teachers, and administrators.
Xuan is our representative. He knows how passionately we care about our children’s education. He initiated the School Committee liaison relationship with each elementary school PTO, and provided monthly updates to APS school newsletters so that we are informed citizens. He knows how hard we work for our money. He has promoted greater transparency of school financial reporting so that we know where and how our money is spent. He has used his management accounting skills to eliminate wasteful spending and maximize state reimbursements.
Xua is one of the most deeply committed people I have known. As a past PTO Chair, Scout leader and Friend of the West Acton Boardwalk committee member, I am very sensitive to the demands of our volunteer committees. Xuan actively listens to the problems at hand and musters his quiet intensity to action. He researches the issues. He presents the options and listens to feedback. He has our best interests at heart. He loves our town and schools.
Lastly, I would like to thank the Kong family for their generous gift: allowing Acton Schools to benefit from the talents of their husband/father.
Jeri Lee
Acton
Kong has been a university professor and skilled a corporate executive
I am writing to urge all Acton voters to unite once again in supporting the candidacy of Michael Coppolino and Xuan Kong who are running for re-election to the Acton School Committee.
Together they have served our community and our children passionately, productively and effectively on the School Committee for a total of 15 years (12 for Coppolino and three for Kong), and the level of knowledge, insight and experience they have gained is precisely what we need in the term ahead.
These qualities are particularly crucial in the next three years as they strive to work with a new Superintendent, some new Administrators, and many new Principals to help them maintain the superior level of education which has kept Acton’s schools among the best in the state.
Coppolino has served as Chairperson of the Regional and Acton Public School Committees three times and Kong once as Chairperson of the Acton Public School Committee, so they know how to lead and manage the complexities of an educational system.
Both have experience as educators inside the classroom --- Coppolino has been a public school teacher for 16 years, and Kong has been a university professor.
And both bring business experience from outside the classroom, with Coppolino skilled as a corporate information technology entrepreneur and Kong as a corporate executive.
Both are particularly concerned with, and qualified to meet the challenge of keeping the budget in line with the escalating contractual and insurance costs we face today.
And both have begun to speak out decisively in meetings with thoughtful financial questions designed to provoke meaningful discussion to achieve fiscal examination of the numbers to help reach much needed budget cuts and savings wherever possible.
Both are quiet men in their demeanor, but determined more than ever to make their thoughts and their views clearly heard to achieve greater transparency of school financial reporting and accountability to the public --- absolutely essential in these difficult economic times.
Let them continue to be strong voices on the School Committee, and allow their commitment for superior education to serve us and our children for the next three years.
Please join me in returning Michael Coppolino and Xuan Kong to the School Committee with your vote on March 30th.
Dick Calandrella
Acton
Together they have served our community and our children passionately, productively and effectively on the School Committee for a total of 15 years (12 for Coppolino and three for Kong), and the level of knowledge, insight and experience they have gained is precisely what we need in the term ahead.
These qualities are particularly crucial in the next three years as they strive to work with a new Superintendent, some new Administrators, and many new Principals to help them maintain the superior level of education which has kept Acton’s schools among the best in the state.
Coppolino has served as Chairperson of the Regional and Acton Public School Committees three times and Kong once as Chairperson of the Acton Public School Committee, so they know how to lead and manage the complexities of an educational system.
Both have experience as educators inside the classroom --- Coppolino has been a public school teacher for 16 years, and Kong has been a university professor.
And both bring business experience from outside the classroom, with Coppolino skilled as a corporate information technology entrepreneur and Kong as a corporate executive.
Both are particularly concerned with, and qualified to meet the challenge of keeping the budget in line with the escalating contractual and insurance costs we face today.
And both have begun to speak out decisively in meetings with thoughtful financial questions designed to provoke meaningful discussion to achieve fiscal examination of the numbers to help reach much needed budget cuts and savings wherever possible.
Both are quiet men in their demeanor, but determined more than ever to make their thoughts and their views clearly heard to achieve greater transparency of school financial reporting and accountability to the public --- absolutely essential in these difficult economic times.
Let them continue to be strong voices on the School Committee, and allow their commitment for superior education to serve us and our children for the next three years.
Please join me in returning Michael Coppolino and Xuan Kong to the School Committee with your vote on March 30th.
Dick Calandrella
Acton
Xuan has kept the lines of communication open between the Committee and parents
I urge you to cast one of your two votes in the race for School Committee for Xuan Kong. As a former PTO chair and parent of 3 kids in the Acton-Boxborough Schools, I have witnessed first-hand the dedication and drive of Xuan as well as his passion for the quality education of our students and children.
Xuan is nearing the end of his first-term and there couldn’t be a more suitable time to return him to the Committee. Shrinking local-aid and the need to do more with less requires an intellect and common sense approach to problem solving-two character traits that Xuan possesses, among other unique capabilities.
Xuan has kept the lines of communication open between the Committee and parents - when delivering the bad news about budgets or the good news about fundraising efforts. He is a hands-on type of representative for all of us and I encourage everyone to vote for Xuan Kong on March 30.
Christine Fenniman
Acton
Xuan is nearing the end of his first-term and there couldn’t be a more suitable time to return him to the Committee. Shrinking local-aid and the need to do more with less requires an intellect and common sense approach to problem solving-two character traits that Xuan possesses, among other unique capabilities.
Xuan has kept the lines of communication open between the Committee and parents - when delivering the bad news about budgets or the good news about fundraising efforts. He is a hands-on type of representative for all of us and I encourage everyone to vote for Xuan Kong on March 30.
Christine Fenniman
Acton
His commitment to improving our schools is unmatched. His expert skill of balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders is beyond compare
Xuan Kong is the finest candidate, and my candidate of choice for School Committee. Over the past three years, Xuan has played a significant role in shaping Acton’s school systems. Below are just a few of his accomplishments:
1. Xuan has advocated for students educational rights, putting the needs of the students first in every decision we as a community make. He has advocated on such topics as classroom size, special education programs and staff support.
2. Xuan has brought fiscal responsibility to the budgeting process by introducing a comprehensive set of budgeting tools. He has made certain that contract negotiations and budget planning are done with the maximum information available, thus ensuring that the most informed decisions are made. He has brought a greater level of transparency to school financial reporting.
3. Xuan has enhanced the relations and communications between the School Committee and the community via creation of a School Committee-PTO liaison role, and monthly updates to school newsletters. This improved communications has led to better relations and more open communication between the School Committee and the community.
4. Xuan has played an active role in the recent Conant School principal resignation and search. He has been an avid listener of all perspectives, and provided his wisdom and experience in advocating for what is best for Conant students.
Xuan has dedicated his time and energy to making our school system the best that it can be. He is passionate about what he does. His commitment to improving our schools is unmatched. His expert skill of balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders is beyond compare. And very importantly, his morals and ethics are unwavering.
Most of all, in everything that Xuan does, he never loses sight of the fact that the ultimate stakeholders in our schools are the students. The students of today will one day shape the world we live in, as they become the future leaders of the world. By providing these young minds with the best school system we can offer, Xuan is making the world a better place.
With elections coming up quickly, I ask you to please get out and vote for Xuan. In my humble opinion, he is the finest candidate to bring out the best our schools have to offer. I plan to cast my vote for Xuan on March 30; please do your part for our future, and vote for Xuan Kong.
Joanne Wu
Acton
1. Xuan has advocated for students educational rights, putting the needs of the students first in every decision we as a community make. He has advocated on such topics as classroom size, special education programs and staff support.
2. Xuan has brought fiscal responsibility to the budgeting process by introducing a comprehensive set of budgeting tools. He has made certain that contract negotiations and budget planning are done with the maximum information available, thus ensuring that the most informed decisions are made. He has brought a greater level of transparency to school financial reporting.
3. Xuan has enhanced the relations and communications between the School Committee and the community via creation of a School Committee-PTO liaison role, and monthly updates to school newsletters. This improved communications has led to better relations and more open communication between the School Committee and the community.
4. Xuan has played an active role in the recent Conant School principal resignation and search. He has been an avid listener of all perspectives, and provided his wisdom and experience in advocating for what is best for Conant students.
Xuan has dedicated his time and energy to making our school system the best that it can be. He is passionate about what he does. His commitment to improving our schools is unmatched. His expert skill of balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders is beyond compare. And very importantly, his morals and ethics are unwavering.
Most of all, in everything that Xuan does, he never loses sight of the fact that the ultimate stakeholders in our schools are the students. The students of today will one day shape the world we live in, as they become the future leaders of the world. By providing these young minds with the best school system we can offer, Xuan is making the world a better place.
With elections coming up quickly, I ask you to please get out and vote for Xuan. In my humble opinion, he is the finest candidate to bring out the best our schools have to offer. I plan to cast my vote for Xuan on March 30; please do your part for our future, and vote for Xuan Kong.
Joanne Wu
Acton
Xuan Kong cares deeply about improving the educational climate in our community and has served our students and schools very well
I write to support the candidacy of Xuan Kong, who is running for reelection to the Acton School Committee. His combination of educational and business skills and his deep commitment to preserving and improving the quality of the education being provided to our children in a very difficult fiscal environment merit the gratitude and continued support of all Acton residents.
I got to know Xuan two years ago while participating with other concerned parents in the effort to gain approval to start instruction in Chinese in Acton-Boxborough Regional Schools. When our daughter Julia, now a junior, started seventh grade at R.J. Grey, my wife and I were dismayed to learn that the foreign language options available were limited to French and Spanish. Furthermore, when she was about to start high school, we were even more disappointed to learn that the “world language” options had been expanded, but only to include Latin and Italian. In an era in which the United States and China are likely to dominate the world economy for decades, and in which peer school systems like Concord-Carlisle, Lexington, and Newton already taught Chinese and sometimes other foreign languages, such as German or Russian, it seemed to me that youths in Acton and Boxborough were being shortchanged by being limited to only Romance languages. When our group spoke with Xuan, he was sympathetic.
However, this was not a parochial issue for him. His own family and other Chinese-speaking families in our community were already benefiting from the Acton Chinese Language School, where he has served on the governing board. But the Sunday classes provided by ACLS were not a good model for youths from non-Chinese families who wanted to start learning Chinese from scratch. Xuan advised our group on how to make our case for launching Chinese instruction to school administrators and to the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee, and we were pleased by the sympathetic hearing we received. Acton and Boxborough youths of all backgrounds can now benefit from the fact that world languages are no longer so limited, and Julia is now completing her second year of Chinese instruction at ABRHS.
Since getting to know him I have continued to be impressed by Xuan’s constructive role in helping to guide and improve the educational climate and practices in our schools. Whether it is in using his managerial and accounting background to achieve better oversight and control over school budgets or in expanding the network of regular communication channels to PTOs in each elementary school, it is clear that Xuan Kong cares deeply about improving the educational climate in our community and has served our students and schools very well. Maintaining the quality and integrity of our schools in the very difficult fiscal climate that we now find ourselves in cannot be an easy task, but I am confident that Xuan Kong has provided and will continue to provide the kind of vision and leadership that we need in the years ahead.
Martin Whyte
I got to know Xuan two years ago while participating with other concerned parents in the effort to gain approval to start instruction in Chinese in Acton-Boxborough Regional Schools. When our daughter Julia, now a junior, started seventh grade at R.J. Grey, my wife and I were dismayed to learn that the foreign language options available were limited to French and Spanish. Furthermore, when she was about to start high school, we were even more disappointed to learn that the “world language” options had been expanded, but only to include Latin and Italian. In an era in which the United States and China are likely to dominate the world economy for decades, and in which peer school systems like Concord-Carlisle, Lexington, and Newton already taught Chinese and sometimes other foreign languages, such as German or Russian, it seemed to me that youths in Acton and Boxborough were being shortchanged by being limited to only Romance languages. When our group spoke with Xuan, he was sympathetic.
However, this was not a parochial issue for him. His own family and other Chinese-speaking families in our community were already benefiting from the Acton Chinese Language School, where he has served on the governing board. But the Sunday classes provided by ACLS were not a good model for youths from non-Chinese families who wanted to start learning Chinese from scratch. Xuan advised our group on how to make our case for launching Chinese instruction to school administrators and to the Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee, and we were pleased by the sympathetic hearing we received. Acton and Boxborough youths of all backgrounds can now benefit from the fact that world languages are no longer so limited, and Julia is now completing her second year of Chinese instruction at ABRHS.
Since getting to know him I have continued to be impressed by Xuan’s constructive role in helping to guide and improve the educational climate and practices in our schools. Whether it is in using his managerial and accounting background to achieve better oversight and control over school budgets or in expanding the network of regular communication channels to PTOs in each elementary school, it is clear that Xuan Kong cares deeply about improving the educational climate in our community and has served our students and schools very well. Maintaining the quality and integrity of our schools in the very difficult fiscal climate that we now find ourselves in cannot be an easy task, but I am confident that Xuan Kong has provided and will continue to provide the kind of vision and leadership that we need in the years ahead.
Martin Whyte
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Xuan Kong is a man of the highest character, his leadership has been part of what has helped us successfully navigate the economic landscape
My family moved almost every three years as I was growing up. With each move, my parents found their new home based on one guiding principle: Find the best school system in the state and make it your home. I benefited from what they had discovered: A community invested in its schools was invested in the future. While I do not have children of my own, I have found my parents guiding principle has served me well in making a home in Acton.
I also was taught early to value the importance of diversity. It was one thing to say that one should explore different cultures and different perspectives. It was another to actively engage with different cultural perspectives. The world became at once a bigger - and a smaller - place- by seeking friends from different cultures.
It is fort these reasons that I am supporting Xuan Kong’s candidacy for School Committee. First, I believe that as the incumbent Chair of the Acton Public Schools, Dr. Kong’s leadership has been part of what has helped us successfully navigate the economic landscape. He has made informed decisions, and is clearly committed to honoring the tradition of excellence that define our schools. Second, Xuan and his family have actively offered me opportunities to learn more about their heritage. He has made Acton both larger, and smaller, and has been a respectful and engaging teacher. However, my third reason for supporting Xuan is perhaps the most important. I know Xuan Kong to be a man of the highest character. I know he will make decisions that are wise, with even- handedness and honesty. I know he is invested in bringing out the best qualities in the School Board, in our Schools and in our community.
Brenda Gowing
I also was taught early to value the importance of diversity. It was one thing to say that one should explore different cultures and different perspectives. It was another to actively engage with different cultural perspectives. The world became at once a bigger - and a smaller - place- by seeking friends from different cultures.
It is fort these reasons that I am supporting Xuan Kong’s candidacy for School Committee. First, I believe that as the incumbent Chair of the Acton Public Schools, Dr. Kong’s leadership has been part of what has helped us successfully navigate the economic landscape. He has made informed decisions, and is clearly committed to honoring the tradition of excellence that define our schools. Second, Xuan and his family have actively offered me opportunities to learn more about their heritage. He has made Acton both larger, and smaller, and has been a respectful and engaging teacher. However, my third reason for supporting Xuan is perhaps the most important. I know Xuan Kong to be a man of the highest character. I know he will make decisions that are wise, with even- handedness and honesty. I know he is invested in bringing out the best qualities in the School Board, in our Schools and in our community.
Brenda Gowing
Monday, March 22, 2010
Xuan has brought much needed international diversity to the Acton School Committee
To the editor:
Xuan Kong is running for a well-deserved second term on the Acton School Committee. Please join me in giving him your vote.
Three years ago I supported Xuan Kong in his first bid for the Acton School Committee because of his dedication to preparing students to become global citizens; his strong communication skills; his solid background in business, management, and education; and his thorough understanding of the important issues facing the Acton school system. I had very high expectations for him and he exceeded them all. I am thrilled that he has decided to run for another term.
This year I am supporting Xuan again because of the outstanding job he has done during his first term. The fact that he now serves as Chair of the Acton Public School Committee speaks for itself. We are all benefitting from his accomplishments of the past three years. Communications between the school committee and parents have improved, school lunch prices have remained low, a very effective set of budget planning tools has been created, and above all else the educational needs of our students remain the top priority. These are just a few examples of Xuan’s contributions to our school system.
I have had the opportunity to interact with Xuan on numerous occasions these past three years and to see him in action at School Committee meetings. I am continually impressed. He is passionate about the Acton school system, is committed to preserving school choice, and appreciates the uniqueness of every school in Acton. He takes the time to listen to and weigh all points of view on an issue – even if his own views may differ, he is a very effective speaker, and he is extremely approachable. He is an advocate for students, teachers, staff, administrators, and parents.
The mission statement of the Acton Public Schools is “Students and staff are a learning community participating in a global society.” Xuan has brought much needed international diversity to the Acton School Committee and is the one candidate most qualified to bring a global perspective to our school committee.
Acton would be most fortunate to have three more years of Xuan’s dedication, insight, experience, energy, intellect, and considerable talent. I can think of no person more deserving of a second term. Please give him your vote on March 30.
Beth Davis
Split Rock
Acton
(Letter to Beacon)
Xuan Kong is running for a well-deserved second term on the Acton School Committee. Please join me in giving him your vote.
Three years ago I supported Xuan Kong in his first bid for the Acton School Committee because of his dedication to preparing students to become global citizens; his strong communication skills; his solid background in business, management, and education; and his thorough understanding of the important issues facing the Acton school system. I had very high expectations for him and he exceeded them all. I am thrilled that he has decided to run for another term.
This year I am supporting Xuan again because of the outstanding job he has done during his first term. The fact that he now serves as Chair of the Acton Public School Committee speaks for itself. We are all benefitting from his accomplishments of the past three years. Communications between the school committee and parents have improved, school lunch prices have remained low, a very effective set of budget planning tools has been created, and above all else the educational needs of our students remain the top priority. These are just a few examples of Xuan’s contributions to our school system.
I have had the opportunity to interact with Xuan on numerous occasions these past three years and to see him in action at School Committee meetings. I am continually impressed. He is passionate about the Acton school system, is committed to preserving school choice, and appreciates the uniqueness of every school in Acton. He takes the time to listen to and weigh all points of view on an issue – even if his own views may differ, he is a very effective speaker, and he is extremely approachable. He is an advocate for students, teachers, staff, administrators, and parents.
The mission statement of the Acton Public Schools is “Students and staff are a learning community participating in a global society.” Xuan has brought much needed international diversity to the Acton School Committee and is the one candidate most qualified to bring a global perspective to our school committee.
Acton would be most fortunate to have three more years of Xuan’s dedication, insight, experience, energy, intellect, and considerable talent. I can think of no person more deserving of a second term. Please give him your vote on March 30.
Beth Davis
Split Rock
Acton
(Letter to Beacon)
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Xuan is a very dedicated parent volunteer in helping Acton to grow as a culturally diverse community
To The Beacon.
I would like for voters to consider the candidacy of Xuan Kong who is running for re-election as a member of the school committee I have known Xuan for five years, from my experience as a parent volunteer at Gates School, where our children attend. Xuan has always found the time to be a very dedicated parent volunteer, while at the same time balancing the school committee responsibilities, maintaining a career, taking care of two generations of family members and helping Acton to grow as a culturally diverse community. He is never at a loss for words, but at the same time carefully considers each and every situation to be unique and worthy of deep thought and analysis. Xuan brings the school committee several different perspectives, which should not be ignored. A review of his attendance and voting record while a member of the school committee would disclose his continued dedication and hard work. I have always enjoyed working alongside of Xuan as I am certain school committee members feel the same way. If you have questions, just pick up the telephone, or email xuan as I know him to always welcome the opportunity to interact with the voters. Thank you for considering the candidacy of Xuan Kong.
Jim Tabner
(Letter to Beacon)
I would like for voters to consider the candidacy of Xuan Kong who is running for re-election as a member of the school committee I have known Xuan for five years, from my experience as a parent volunteer at Gates School, where our children attend. Xuan has always found the time to be a very dedicated parent volunteer, while at the same time balancing the school committee responsibilities, maintaining a career, taking care of two generations of family members and helping Acton to grow as a culturally diverse community. He is never at a loss for words, but at the same time carefully considers each and every situation to be unique and worthy of deep thought and analysis. Xuan brings the school committee several different perspectives, which should not be ignored. A review of his attendance and voting record while a member of the school committee would disclose his continued dedication and hard work. I have always enjoyed working alongside of Xuan as I am certain school committee members feel the same way. If you have questions, just pick up the telephone, or email xuan as I know him to always welcome the opportunity to interact with the voters. Thank you for considering the candidacy of Xuan Kong.
Jim Tabner
(Letter to Beacon)
Xuan is a good team player being worked tirelessly on various issues
Dear editor,
I support the re-election of Xuan Kong to the school committee and encourage others to vote for him.
I know Xuan when performing community service with him. Xuan is a good team player. He listens to others carefully and respects different opinions. When a specific issue arises, he always strives to find all the relative details and sort them out to make an informed decision. I supported him three years ago when he ran for school committee first time, because I believed his enthusiasm, dedication, and competence for the job.
After being elected, Xuan worked tirelessly on various issues. What impressed me most was Xuan’s positive impact on Acton Chinese community in a special town meeting for the financial health of Acton school system. During the meeting, a vote was held to decide whether to return the town reserve as one-time tax deduction or to save the fund for future budget shortage. This issue deeply divided Acton Chinese community. Some members questioned why the expense of school system always exceeded the allowed increase of tax, while others believed a good school system needed every penny it could get.
Xuan sent several emails with detailed budget analysis on where the money was spent in Acton schools. He tried to prove to the Chinese community that Acton school system was efficient comparing to the neighboring towns that had similar level of performance. He emphasized the importance of keeping balance between adequate social services (to children, to seniors, to those in need) and our own self interest (of a lower taxes). Although Xuan did not convince everyone, his insightful analysis nevertheless helped many voters in Acton Chinese community to make an informed decision.
Today, I am glad to see that Xuan’s diligent work and excellent contribution are widely recognized by other members of Acton community. I was thrilled to read the praise from Acton resident Jon Benson -- “Xuan has spent countless hours over the past three years dealing with all of the complicated and difficult issues the School Committee has faced”, and from Xuan’s committer colleague John Peterson -- “Kong is exemplary on Panel”,
In these difficult times, we especially need Xuan to continue his excellent service to make our school system more efficient and improve its performance. Please vote with me on March 30 for Xuan Kong.
Lining Wu,
Acton
(Letter to Beacon)
I support the re-election of Xuan Kong to the school committee and encourage others to vote for him.
I know Xuan when performing community service with him. Xuan is a good team player. He listens to others carefully and respects different opinions. When a specific issue arises, he always strives to find all the relative details and sort them out to make an informed decision. I supported him three years ago when he ran for school committee first time, because I believed his enthusiasm, dedication, and competence for the job.
After being elected, Xuan worked tirelessly on various issues. What impressed me most was Xuan’s positive impact on Acton Chinese community in a special town meeting for the financial health of Acton school system. During the meeting, a vote was held to decide whether to return the town reserve as one-time tax deduction or to save the fund for future budget shortage. This issue deeply divided Acton Chinese community. Some members questioned why the expense of school system always exceeded the allowed increase of tax, while others believed a good school system needed every penny it could get.
Xuan sent several emails with detailed budget analysis on where the money was spent in Acton schools. He tried to prove to the Chinese community that Acton school system was efficient comparing to the neighboring towns that had similar level of performance. He emphasized the importance of keeping balance between adequate social services (to children, to seniors, to those in need) and our own self interest (of a lower taxes). Although Xuan did not convince everyone, his insightful analysis nevertheless helped many voters in Acton Chinese community to make an informed decision.
Today, I am glad to see that Xuan’s diligent work and excellent contribution are widely recognized by other members of Acton community. I was thrilled to read the praise from Acton resident Jon Benson -- “Xuan has spent countless hours over the past three years dealing with all of the complicated and difficult issues the School Committee has faced”, and from Xuan’s committer colleague John Peterson -- “Kong is exemplary on Panel”,
In these difficult times, we especially need Xuan to continue his excellent service to make our school system more efficient and improve its performance. Please vote with me on March 30 for Xuan Kong.
Lining Wu,
Acton
(Letter to Beacon)
Xuan Kong has demonstrated these qualities during his first term as a member of the Acton School Committee
Dear Acton Residents:
Serving as a member of the Acton School Committee is a challenging task. To be effective, a member must have a blend of qualities, including passionate commitment to the educational education excellence, a willingness to negotiate and compromise, the discipline to make difficult choices when the inevitable yearly budget crunch occurs, and an almost endless supply of patience I believe that Xuan Kong has demonstrated these qualities during his first term as a member of the Acton School Committee, and, for that reason, I support his candidacy for re-election to the Board. In Xuan’s case, these qualities arise from a background, which includes experience both in the business world, where he is currently vice-president of a high-tech company, and previously in the academic world as a professor of the electrical engineering at Northern Illinois University. Xuan has also contributed to making Acton a better place to live through volunteer work for various organizations including the Gates School Council, the Boy Scouts, and the Acton Chinese Language School.
We live in an era of a global marketplace for goods and services. Xuan’s international puts him in a position to suggest and guide programs in the elementary school that will promote awareness and understanding of our nation’s relationships with other nations.
Acton is fortunate to have accomplished individuals like Xuan Kong who are eager and willing to serve on the various town boards. I hope that you will join me in supporting Xuan for re-election to the Acton School Committee.
Sincerely,
Paul Schlotter
Acton
(Letter published on Beacon)
Serving as a member of the Acton School Committee is a challenging task. To be effective, a member must have a blend of qualities, including passionate commitment to the educational education excellence, a willingness to negotiate and compromise, the discipline to make difficult choices when the inevitable yearly budget crunch occurs, and an almost endless supply of patience I believe that Xuan Kong has demonstrated these qualities during his first term as a member of the Acton School Committee, and, for that reason, I support his candidacy for re-election to the Board. In Xuan’s case, these qualities arise from a background, which includes experience both in the business world, where he is currently vice-president of a high-tech company, and previously in the academic world as a professor of the electrical engineering at Northern Illinois University. Xuan has also contributed to making Acton a better place to live through volunteer work for various organizations including the Gates School Council, the Boy Scouts, and the Acton Chinese Language School.
We live in an era of a global marketplace for goods and services. Xuan’s international puts him in a position to suggest and guide programs in the elementary school that will promote awareness and understanding of our nation’s relationships with other nations.
Acton is fortunate to have accomplished individuals like Xuan Kong who are eager and willing to serve on the various town boards. I hope that you will join me in supporting Xuan for re-election to the Acton School Committee.
Sincerely,
Paul Schlotter
Acton
(Letter published on Beacon)
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Xuan has dealed with all of the complicated and difficult issues that School Committee faced over the past three years
“In a year of anti-incumbent sentiment nationwide our school committee has managed these extraordinarily difficult times very well. The system is in a position to continue at its very high level. The wonderful letter in the March 4 Beacon by 12-year-old Albert Kong in support of his dad is a tough ct to follow. (Go online and read it!)
Xuan has spent countless hours over the past three years dealing with all of the complicated and difficult issues the School Committee has faced, Yes, he has ruffled some feathers by asking thoughtful questions to administrators and seeking information which was readily available but not previously disseminated before reaching a decision. However, for many of us, this is what we want in a school committeeman.”
Jon Benson
Deacon Hunt Drive, Acton
Xuan has spent countless hours over the past three years dealing with all of the complicated and difficult issues the School Committee has faced, Yes, he has ruffled some feathers by asking thoughtful questions to administrators and seeking information which was readily available but not previously disseminated before reaching a decision. However, for many of us, this is what we want in a school committeeman.”
Jon Benson
Deacon Hunt Drive, Acton
Xuan has a deep commitment to education
I have had the pleasure of working with Xuan Kong on the School Committee in Acton for the past two years. Xuan’s performance as a member of the committee has been exemplary. In the past year as chair, Xuan has worked diligently to streamline meetings and provide focus on important issues. His attention to detail has improved the quality of materials that are presented to the committee as well as the discussion in the committee. His willingness and ability to perform detailed technical analysis of the budget has advanced the work of the committee and the quality of our schools. He has been tireless in reaching out to the community as shown by the monthly updates he has written for the APS PTO newsletters and assignment of individual school committee members as liaisons for each elementary school.
Xuan has a deep commitment to education. Although his current job is technical, his background as a teacher is easily seen. Our students, K-12, are as diverse as the students I met in graduate school. I am truly thankful that Xuan brings to our committee the immigrant and ethnic values that are critical to the ongoing success of our schools and our community. Xuan’s commitment to the universal value, fair play, is always apparent in his analysis of the impact of our decisions on each and every student.
Knowing that Xuan’s three year term was ending, I called Xuan encouraging him to run again and build on his experience. I was thrilled when Xuan called me to tell me that he would run for a second term. I hope you will share my enthusiasm in voting for Xuan on March 30th.
John Petersen
Member, Acton School Committee
Xuan has a deep commitment to education. Although his current job is technical, his background as a teacher is easily seen. Our students, K-12, are as diverse as the students I met in graduate school. I am truly thankful that Xuan brings to our committee the immigrant and ethnic values that are critical to the ongoing success of our schools and our community. Xuan’s commitment to the universal value, fair play, is always apparent in his analysis of the impact of our decisions on each and every student.
Knowing that Xuan’s three year term was ending, I called Xuan encouraging him to run again and build on his experience. I was thrilled when Xuan called me to tell me that he would run for a second term. I hope you will share my enthusiasm in voting for Xuan on March 30th.
John Petersen
Member, Acton School Committee
Xuan is the proud parent of two children and the the best candidate
Xuan Kong is the best candidate for the School Committee of the Acton School District in 2010. He is currently the hard-working chair of the School Committee and has already dedicated three years of his life to making the Acton School District a better place. He has tirelessly attended meeting after meeting and conquered each difficulty with excellent, low-priced solutions. Xuan doesn’t think being a school committee member is work; he thinks of it as an opportunity to help the community and share his wise knowledge, many years of hard-earned experience, and invaluable guidance with other school committee members. He approaches issues after considering many points of views and will not be prejudiced when coming up with the perfect solution.
Xuan is the proud parent of two children: Albert and Alissa Kong. I am Albert, his child in seventh grade, and Alissa is in fourth grade. We both go to school in the Acton School District and are both very supportive of our dad who continuously shuttles us around for extra-curricular activities. My dad is a very determined person and father who will only settle for the best solution for problems big and small. One time I was having trouble studying for a very important math test. Dad took time out of his already busy schedule to drive me to the library to study. He patiently explained all the important concepts the test would cover. With my dad’s help in studying for the math test, I aced the test and was very proud of my grade.
Xuan also helps with the annual school auction at Alissa’s school, the Paul P. Gates School. He is the treasurer of the Troop 284 of the Boy Scouts and is an active member of the Acton Chinese Language School. On top of it all, he is the vice-president of research at Neurometrix. He has already donated hundreds of hours of his time to the community and works day and night to make Acton a better place than it already is.
Acton is flourishing with very bright students. Our town even made it to the list of the top 20 best places to live in the US. With Xuan’s help, the School District will continue to improve and enlighten even more children.
But only with your support can Xuan Kong be reelected to the School Committee. Please help Xuan help not just you but the whole community. I wrote this letter not for the school committee member Xuan Kong, but for my dad, Xuan Kong. Please vote for Xuan Kong on March 30th, 2010. Thank you for making Acton a better place.
His son,
Albert Kong
Xuan is the proud parent of two children: Albert and Alissa Kong. I am Albert, his child in seventh grade, and Alissa is in fourth grade. We both go to school in the Acton School District and are both very supportive of our dad who continuously shuttles us around for extra-curricular activities. My dad is a very determined person and father who will only settle for the best solution for problems big and small. One time I was having trouble studying for a very important math test. Dad took time out of his already busy schedule to drive me to the library to study. He patiently explained all the important concepts the test would cover. With my dad’s help in studying for the math test, I aced the test and was very proud of my grade.
Xuan also helps with the annual school auction at Alissa’s school, the Paul P. Gates School. He is the treasurer of the Troop 284 of the Boy Scouts and is an active member of the Acton Chinese Language School. On top of it all, he is the vice-president of research at Neurometrix. He has already donated hundreds of hours of his time to the community and works day and night to make Acton a better place than it already is.
Acton is flourishing with very bright students. Our town even made it to the list of the top 20 best places to live in the US. With Xuan’s help, the School District will continue to improve and enlighten even more children.
But only with your support can Xuan Kong be reelected to the School Committee. Please help Xuan help not just you but the whole community. I wrote this letter not for the school committee member Xuan Kong, but for my dad, Xuan Kong. Please vote for Xuan Kong on March 30th, 2010. Thank you for making Acton a better place.
His son,
Albert Kong
Xuan is sensitive to the opinions of parents and has created School Committee liaison to each elementary school PTOs to improve the communication
Dr. Xuan Kong is the current chair of the Acton Public School Committee. I attended his Q&A practice three years ago when he was campaigning for the School Committee. My first impression of Xuan was that he was very knowledgeable, yet very modest. He was open to all critiques. Later, I watched the Candidates Forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters on TV. I was convinced by his exceptional performance that he would win. Indeed, he received the highest votes among the candidates during his first campaign.
A half year later, on top of his public service as a member of School Committee, Xuan was elected as a board member of Acton Chinese Language School. At that time I was the school principal and also a board member. This gave me an opportunity to work with Xuan and get to know him better. Xuan became the Treasurer of the Board because of his MBA background in finance. I once made an urgent request to Xuan on a Friday evening to translate the ACLS Financial Policy into English in order to get ready for the Sunday’s Board discussion on this important financial document. Xuan did not make any promises, but he said he would try his best. I was surprised to receive his translation on Saturday morning. He had completed and sent me the document at 3:00 am. It was an excellent translation that reflected his in-depth understanding of financial terminology, concepts, contents, and fluency in both languages. I was amazed by his excellent work and deeply moved by his dedication as a devoted volunteer.
I am very happy that Xuan decided to run for a second term. The School Committee needs passionate and competent volunteers like Xuan. His experiences as university professor, a volunteer for the Gates School PTO and Acton Chinese Language School, and three years of service on the Acton Public School Committee give him sound knowledge of the education system and the needs of our students. He will continue to advocate for the educational benefits for our students through balanced resource allocation. Being a dedicated volunteer himself, he appreciates the hard work of teachers, staff and administrators in order to educate our students. As a father of two school age kids, Xuan is sensitive to the opinions of parents and has created School Committee liaison to each elementary school PTOs in order to improve the communication with communities. Our Acton community is lucky to have Xuan on the School Committee as a strong contributor and a great leader. Please vote for him on March 30th.
Yanni Gou
Acton
A half year later, on top of his public service as a member of School Committee, Xuan was elected as a board member of Acton Chinese Language School. At that time I was the school principal and also a board member. This gave me an opportunity to work with Xuan and get to know him better. Xuan became the Treasurer of the Board because of his MBA background in finance. I once made an urgent request to Xuan on a Friday evening to translate the ACLS Financial Policy into English in order to get ready for the Sunday’s Board discussion on this important financial document. Xuan did not make any promises, but he said he would try his best. I was surprised to receive his translation on Saturday morning. He had completed and sent me the document at 3:00 am. It was an excellent translation that reflected his in-depth understanding of financial terminology, concepts, contents, and fluency in both languages. I was amazed by his excellent work and deeply moved by his dedication as a devoted volunteer.
I am very happy that Xuan decided to run for a second term. The School Committee needs passionate and competent volunteers like Xuan. His experiences as university professor, a volunteer for the Gates School PTO and Acton Chinese Language School, and three years of service on the Acton Public School Committee give him sound knowledge of the education system and the needs of our students. He will continue to advocate for the educational benefits for our students through balanced resource allocation. Being a dedicated volunteer himself, he appreciates the hard work of teachers, staff and administrators in order to educate our students. As a father of two school age kids, Xuan is sensitive to the opinions of parents and has created School Committee liaison to each elementary school PTOs in order to improve the communication with communities. Our Acton community is lucky to have Xuan on the School Committee as a strong contributor and a great leader. Please vote for him on March 30th.
Yanni Gou
Acton
Xuan is a good communicator, an experienced unifier
The current Acton Public School Committee chair Xuan Kong told me that he would run for a second term. As a friend of him and a parent of two school-age kids, I support his campaign for reelection.
Xuan and his family have lived in Acton for about 10 years ever since he came to Boston to join a local medical device startup as its VP of Research. Before that, Xuan was a teacher and researcher at Northern Illinois University. He has participated in many public services including Gates PTO, Acton Chinese Language School and, since 3 years ago, Acton Public School Committee. He did very well in all these roles.
Xuan always tries to make responsible decisions. Facing the difficult situation of budget shortfalls, he insisted that the Acton public schools not cut funding for classroom assistants. He talked to me about his thoughts many times: it was hard to make everybody happy, but the one thing he would never do was to sacrifice the educational quality the students received at school. It was for the students’ benefit to maintain classroom assistant hours, and it was a more cost-effective way to help the kids in the time of financial uncertainty.
Xuan is a good communicator. As an Acton School Committee member, he initiated the practice of sending out updates to elementary school parents via their school PTO newsletters every month to let everyone know what the committee is doing, what the key issues are, and how people could be involved. During the time when educational aid from the state government was uncertain, he explained to the public how the school budget plan processed in the Committee, and asked for comments to help make wise decisions.
Xuan is an experienced unifier. He kept the Gates PTO members updated on the School Committee issues when he attended the Gates PTO meetings. He encouraged other Committee members to keep close contacts with the school PTOs that he/she chose. He collaborates with the community leaders in making key decisions, including the AB District superintendent searching last year.
I have known Xuan for seven years. He is a man of experience, responsibility, enthusiasm, and decency. I support his candidacy for School Committee and strongly urge you to vote for him.
Leo Yuan
Acton
Xuan and his family have lived in Acton for about 10 years ever since he came to Boston to join a local medical device startup as its VP of Research. Before that, Xuan was a teacher and researcher at Northern Illinois University. He has participated in many public services including Gates PTO, Acton Chinese Language School and, since 3 years ago, Acton Public School Committee. He did very well in all these roles.
Xuan always tries to make responsible decisions. Facing the difficult situation of budget shortfalls, he insisted that the Acton public schools not cut funding for classroom assistants. He talked to me about his thoughts many times: it was hard to make everybody happy, but the one thing he would never do was to sacrifice the educational quality the students received at school. It was for the students’ benefit to maintain classroom assistant hours, and it was a more cost-effective way to help the kids in the time of financial uncertainty.
Xuan is a good communicator. As an Acton School Committee member, he initiated the practice of sending out updates to elementary school parents via their school PTO newsletters every month to let everyone know what the committee is doing, what the key issues are, and how people could be involved. During the time when educational aid from the state government was uncertain, he explained to the public how the school budget plan processed in the Committee, and asked for comments to help make wise decisions.
Xuan is an experienced unifier. He kept the Gates PTO members updated on the School Committee issues when he attended the Gates PTO meetings. He encouraged other Committee members to keep close contacts with the school PTOs that he/she chose. He collaborates with the community leaders in making key decisions, including the AB District superintendent searching last year.
I have known Xuan for seven years. He is a man of experience, responsibility, enthusiasm, and decency. I support his candidacy for School Committee and strongly urge you to vote for him.
Leo Yuan
Acton
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