Submitted by Allison Hope, Greenwich
As our town faces critical decisions about the future of our schools, it’s clear that leadership rooted in experience, collaboration and a sincere commitment to all students is what truly matters. Veronica Chiavaroli and Bob Chaney are the candidates who embody these qualities and are uniquely suited to guide our Board of Education into a more functional, effective and forward-thinking era—beyond partisan politics.
Both Veronica and Bob are well-connected, deeply knowledgeable and seasoned in the issues impacting our schools. Veronica’s advocacy for special education is a testament to her dedication. As a dedicated parent of one child in general education and another in special education, she has firsthand insight into the importance of sustaining programs like the ALP (Accelerated Learning Program). Veronica’s active role as a voting member of SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee), co-chair of SES for PTAC (Parent-Teacher Advisory Council), and her service on the Julian Curtiss School building committee as ADA consultant reflect her deep engagement and expertise in ensuring our schools meet diverse student needs.
Veronica is known for her reliability, dependability, organization and thoughtful approach. She’s a smart, hardworking advocate who consistently puts children and community first. Her advocacy is grounded in a sincere desire to see our educational offerings expanded and improved, ensuring that no child is left behind or marginalized. Her commitment to inclusive education and her proven ability to collaborate effectively with educators, parents, and policymakers make her an exceptional candidate for guiding our schools through complex challenges.
Bob brings almost a decade of hands-on involvement in our schools from a variety of angles. His sons’ journeys through PreK, Julian Curtiss, Central, and now high school have given him a comprehensive understanding of our educational system. His extensive volunteer work—serving on PTAs, assisting with media centers, book fairs, and building committees, and contributing to PTAC—demonstrates his dedication and willingness to serve beyond just voting. Those who know Bob describe him as kind, compassionate, and eager to make a positive difference. His patience, dependability, and active listening skills are vital qualities for a leader who strives to bring people together and foster a cooperative environment.
What makes Veronica and Bob especially compelling is their ability to connect with people across backgrounds and perspectives. They understand that effective education policy isn’t about partisan quibbling; it’s about serving the best interests of students, teachers and our town’s future. Their professionalism, diplomacy, and decorum set the tone for constructive conversations—conversations that focus on solutions rather than disagreements. They are both officially endorsed by the party.
Our current Board needs fresh energy, new ideas and a bipartisan spirit that unites rather than divides. Veronica and Bob represent that fresh perspective. They are the candidates who will prioritize our children’s needs over politics, advocating for continued inclusivity, transparency and collaboration. It’s crucial that voters from all parties recognize that this election isn’t about Democrat or Republican; it’s about choosing the people who will best serve our school community with integrity and dedication.
As we head into this election, it’s important to note that voters are allowed four votes for the Board of Education, with no more than two per party. We hope that all voters, including Republican voters, in particular, will support Veronica and Bob, who embody change and leadership. They will bring a more collaborative, transparent, and future-forward approach to our schools—something our community urgently needs.
Along with a Democratic-led Board of Estimation and Taxation (BET), ushering out the 100-year-old era of stymying and blocking critical funding for our schools, the Board of Education can help tee up the fiscally-responsible, long-term planning we desperately need so we can keep taxes low and get out of the emergency repair game (see: ceilings collapsing, condemned buildings, toxic waste leaking into buildings, contaminated soil and other fun crises that have plagued our schools and displaced our children because of Republican neglect).
Together, Veronica and Bob are ready to serve as board members who listen, lead with integrity, and prioritize our community’s well-being. Let’s choose experienced, compassionate and collaborative leaders for our schools—leaders who will work tirelessly to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Note: The deadline to submit letters to the editor about candidates for consideration in the Nov 4, 2025 municipal elections is Oct 28, 2025 at 12:00 noon.