Letter to the Editor: Regarding Sheila Mehta-Green, Candidate for School Committee

~ Submitted by Jessica Leavell, Ph.D.

Dear friends and neighbors, it is with great pleasure that I write this letter in support of Sheila Mehta-Green, Ph.D. for our school committee. Sheila has lived in Bedford for 20 years and the last 12 years volunteering countless hours to support and advocate for our children, families, and schools. She has held numerous leadership roles including co-chair of the Celebrating Differences program at Lane School, Vice President of the MSPA, and most recently co-chair of the Special Education Advisory. Sheila was also a member of the JGMS and district reopening committees. Through these efforts, she has developed an in-depth understanding of our school system and the state-level organizations involved in educational decision-making.

Sheila’s leadership style is one we should all aspire to emulate. She takes a balanced approach to decision-making that emphasizes critical thinking, fairness, respect, integrity and compassion.  She enjoys working with others to problem-solve and facilitate change. She is a valued and admired community partner who has strong working relationships with students, families, teachers and administrators.

On a more personal note, like Sheila, I am the mother of an amazing child with specialized learning needs. I am also a pediatric neuropsychologist who has worked for 20 years to evaluate and advocate for children with learning, social and mental health challenges– challenges that place an enormous emotional burden on these children and families. I am particularly inspired by Sheila’s overarching goal to create an increasingly inclusive school community – one that honors every child’s capacity for success across these areas of development. Through her years of service, Sheila has been able to appreciate the gains that have been made to date, while also acknowledging that there is still more work to do.

In conclusion, Sheila’s leadership experiences, in-depth knowledge of our school system and fair and compassionate nature make her a wonderful candidate to serve on our school committee.